Delivery pump
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202180039110.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2021-02-25
- Filing Date
- 2021-05-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2041-05-27
Smart Images

Figure CN115667717B_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Cross-reference to related applications
[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 032,161, filed May 29, 2020, entitled “MUD AND FILLERPUMP”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 127,241, filed December 18, 2020, entitled “TRANSFER PUMP”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 153,516, filed February 25, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology
[0003] This disclosure generally relates to pumps. More specifically, this disclosure relates to transfer pumps.
[0004] Transfer pumps can be used to pump mud, fillers, and other viscous liquids. This article will use mud as an example, but it can also pump any other type of fluid. Mud is used in construction applications, such as filling gaps in walls and ceilings (especially drywall), smoothing, and creating sections of walls, ceilings, and other structures. This mud can be mixed on-site, for example, in a 5-gallon bucket, or it can be prefabricated, transported, and then opened on-site. The mud is pumped from the bucket to a dispensing nozzle to fill the tool. The dispensing tool then applies the mud to the walls, ceilings, and other structures, typically smoothing and drying it in place. This mud is typically composed of water, limestone, expanded perlite, ethylene-vinyl acetate polymer, attapulgite, and other ingredients. Summary of the Invention
[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a transfer pump is configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel. The transfer pump includes a fluid module and a drive module. The fluid module includes: a mounting frame; a cylinder extending from the mounting frame along a pump axis in a first axial direction; a piston extending through the mounting frame and into the cylinder, the piston being configured to reciprocate along the pump axis to pump material from the barrel; and a support connected to the mounting frame and configured to engage a surface to support the transfer pump on the surface. The drive module is supported by the fluid module and includes: an electric motor operably connected to the piston via a dynamic interface; a power source configured to power the electric motor; and a drive frame configured to engage the mounting frame at a static interface. The transfer pump is mountable to the barrel such that the barrel wall is radially disposed between the cylinder and the mounting support. The electric motor and the power source are spaced apart from the mounting frame in a second axial direction, opposite to the first axial direction.
[0006] According to an additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a delivery pump is configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel. The delivery pump includes: a fluid module configured to extend at least partially into the barrel to contact fluid within the barrel; a drive module structurally supported on the fluid module at a static interface, wherein the drive module has an electric motor configured to power pumping of the fluid module at a dynamic interface; and a support connected to the fluid module and radially spaced from the pump axis of the fluid module, the support being configured to engage with a surface to support the delivery pump on the surface.
[0007] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a transfer pump is configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel. The transfer pump includes: a fluid module configured to extend at least partially into the barrel to contact fluid within the barrel, the fluid module including a piston configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump the fluid; and a drive module removably mounted to the fluid module via a static interface and a dynamic interface, wherein the drive module includes an electric motor operatively connected to the piston to power the reciprocating motion of the piston, and wherein the drive module is structurally supported on the fluid module at the static interface and transmits reciprocating mechanical motion to the pump at the dynamic interface. The drive module can be mounted to the fluid module in multiple orientations such that the drive housing of the drive module extends in different radial directions relative to the pump axis in each of the multiple orientations.
[0008] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a transfer pump configured to pump material includes: a fluid module including a reciprocating pump configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump material; and a drive module movably mounted to the fluid module via a static interface and a dynamic interface, wherein the drive module includes an electric motor operably connected to the fluid module to power the reciprocating motion of the pump. One of the drive module and the fluid module structurally supports the other at the static interface. The drive module transmits the reciprocating mechanical motion to the pump at the dynamic interface.
[0009] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a method for mounting a drive module of a delivery pump to a fluid module of the delivery pump, the drive module including an electric motor configured to power the reciprocating motion of the pump of the fluid module along a pump axis, wherein the method includes: positioning the drive module relative to the fluid module such that the outer lower surface of a drive link of the drive module contacts the upper surface of a head of a fluid moving member; reducing the axial distance between the drive module and the fluid module until a mounting post of the drive module is positioned in an alignment groove formed on a receiver of the fluid module, wherein the drive link can displace the fluid moving member as the axial distance decreases; aligning the mounting post with the receiver; and reducing the radial distance between the drive module and the fluid module to position the mounting post within the receiver, thereby forming a static connection between the drive module and the fluid module, and positioning the head within a mounting groove of the drive link, thereby forming a dynamic connection between the drive module and the fluid module.
[0010] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a transfer pump configured to pump material includes: a fluid module and a drive module connectable to the fluid module at dynamic and static interfaces. The fluid module includes: a mounting frame; and a pump having a fluid moving member configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump material. The drive module includes: an electric motor operably connected to the fluid moving member via a dynamic interface; a power source configured to power the electric motor, wherein the power source is a battery; and a drive frame configured to engage with the mounting frame at a static interface.
[0011] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a delivery pump is configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel. The delivery pump includes: a fluid module configured to extend at least partially into the barrel to contact fluid within the barrel; a drive module removably mounted to the fluid module via a static interface and a dynamic interface, wherein the drive module is structurally supported on the fluid module at the static interface and wherein the drive module transmits reciprocating mechanical motion to the fluid module to induce pumping at the dynamic interface; and a support connected to the fluid module and radially spaced from the pump axis of the fluid module, the support being configured to engage with a surface to support the delivery pump on the surface. The drive module includes the electronic components of the delivery pump, and the fluid module does not include any electronic components, such that the electronic components can be disconnected from the fluid module by disconnecting the static and dynamic interfaces.
[0012] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a method for mounting a drive module of a delivery pump to a fluid module of the delivery pump, the drive module including an electric motor configured to power the reciprocating motion of the pump along a pump axis of the fluid module, comprising: positioning the drive module above the fluid module such that the outer lower surface of a drive link of the drive module contacts the upper surface of a piston head; displacing the drive module axially toward the fluid module in a first axial direction until a mounting post of the drive module is disposed in an alignment recess formed on a receiver of the fluid module, wherein as the drive module moves in the first axial direction, the drive link can displace the piston in the first axial direction; and moving the drive module radially toward the fluid module to position the mounting post in the receiver, thereby forming a static connection between the drive module and the fluid module, and positioning the head within a mounting slot of the drive link, thereby forming a dynamic connection between the drive module and the fluid module.
[0013] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a delivery pump is configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel. The delivery pump includes: a fluid module configured to extend at least partially into the barrel to contact fluid within the barrel, the fluid module including a piston configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump the fluid; a drive module including an electric motor operatively connected to the piston to power the reciprocating motion of the piston; and a control module operatively connected to the electric motor. The control module is configured to: receive a dispensing command from a user interface of the drive module; retrieve dispensing parameters based on the dispensing command from a memory of the drive module, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with a dispensing volume; and operate the electric motor based on the dispensing parameters to cause the delivery pump to output the dispensing volume.
[0014] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a method of pumping with a delivery pump includes: receiving a learning mode instruction from a user interface of the delivery pump at a control module of the delivery pump; providing power to a motor of the delivery pump via the control module of the delivery pump to activate the motor; and removing power from the motor via the control module based on a dispensing parameter associated with a dispensing instruction achieved by the delivery pump.
[0015] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a method of pumping fluid using a delivery pump includes: receiving a learning mode instruction from a user interface of the delivery pump at a control module of the delivery pump; providing power to a motor of the delivery pump via the control module and based on a dispensing instruction from the user interface, such that the motor drives displacement of a piston of the delivery pump to pump a first volume of fluid; recording operating parameters associated with the first volume as dispensing parameters in a memory of the delivery pump and exiting the learning mode via the control module; and dispensing the first volume of fluid. Dispensing the first volume of fluid includes: providing power to the motor of the delivery pump via the control module based on a dispensing instruction received from the user interface at the control module; comparing actual operating parameters with the dispensing parameters via the control module; and removing power from the motor via the control module based on the actual operating parameters reaching the dispensing parameters.
[0016] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a delivery pump configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel, the delivery pump comprising: a fluid module, a drive module, and a nozzle. The fluid module includes: a mounting frame; a cylinder extending from the mounting frame along a pump axis in a first axial direction; a piston extending through the mounting frame and into the cylinder, the piston being configured to reciprocate along the pump axis to pump material from the barrel; and an outlet connector supported by the mounting frame and having an inlet end and an outlet end. The drive module is supported by the fluid module and includes an electric motor operatively connected to the piston to power the reciprocating motion of the piston. The nozzle extends between a first end having a nozzle inlet and a second end having a nozzle outlet, wherein the nozzle is mounted to the outlet connector via the first end engaging with the outlet end of the outlet connector, and wherein the nozzle is repositionable relative to the outlet connector.
[0017] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a nozzle for a delivery pump includes: a tube extending between an inlet end and an outlet end; an annular groove formed near the outlet end; a nozzle mountable to the tube outlet, the nozzle including at least one slot extending through it; and a clamp configured to extend through the at least one slot and into the annular groove to secure the nozzle to the outlet end.
[0018] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a delivery pump configured to pump material from a bucket having an opening, the delivery pump being powered by a battery. The delivery pump includes: a fluid module and a drive module supported by the fluid module, the drive module including a first side and a second side. The fluid module includes: a mounting frame; a cylinder extending from the mounting frame along a pump axis in a first axial direction; a piston extending into the cylinder, the piston being configured to reciprocate along the pump axis to pump material from the bucket; and a bracket connected to the mounting frame and configured to engage with the ground to support the delivery pump on the ground. The drive module includes: an electric motor operatively connected to the piston; a battery mount configured to power the electric motor, the battery mount being located on a second side of the drive module; and a drive frame configured to engage with the mounting frame at a static interface. The delivery pump can be mounted to the bucket such that the first side of the drive module faces the bucket and the bucket wall is radially disposed between the cylinder and the mounting bracket. The battery mount is positioned to keep the battery vertically above the opening of the bucket but not directly above the opening.
[0019] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a method of arranging a delivery pump configured to pump material from a bucket, the method comprising: positioning a fluid module to extend at least partially into the bucket to contact fluid within the bucket, the fluid module including a piston configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump the fluid; and moving the drive module relative to the fluid module while a drive module is mounted on the fluid module and the fluid module remains supported by the bucket, wherein the drive module includes an electric motor operatively connected to the piston to power the reciprocating motion of the piston, and wherein the drive module is structurally supported on the fluid module at a static interface and transmits reciprocating mechanical motion to the piston at a dynamic interface.
[0020] According to another additional or alternative aspect of this disclosure, a method of filling a tool with fluid using a delivery pump includes: initiating a learning mode session via a user interface on the delivery pump; during the learning mode session, initiating actuation of input to the user interface, causing the delivery pump to power a motor of the delivery pump to operate the delivery pump to dispense fluid into the tool; monitoring the dispensed fluid volume; stopping the actuation of input based on satisfaction with the volume of fluid dispensed into the tool; ending the learning mode session; and actuating a dispensing input to the user interface to cause the delivery pump to dispense the same volume as dispensed during the learning mode session. Attached Figure Description
[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of the delivery pump assembly.
[0022] Figure 2A This is an isometric view of the delivery pump installed on the tank.
[0023] Figure 2BThis is a second perspective view of the delivery pump.
[0024] Figure 2C This is a top view of the delivery pump.
[0025] Figure 3A It is along Figure 2A The cross-sectional view of the delivery pump taken from line 3A-3A in the figure.
[0026] Figure 3B It is along Figure 2A The sectional view of the delivery pump taken from line 3B-3B in the figure.
[0027] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of the delivery pump.
[0028] Figure 5A It is an isometric view of a delivery pump with a drive module mounted in the second position.
[0029] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A The top view of the delivery pump shown.
[0030] Figure 6A This is an enlarged isometric exploded view of the delivery pump, showing the drive module and fluid module in an misaligned state.
[0031] Figure 6B This is an enlarged isometric view showing the drive module and fluid module of the delivery pump in a first alignment state.
[0032] Figure 6C This is an enlarged front view showing the drive module and fluid module of the delivery pump in the second alignment state.
[0033] Figure 6D This is an enlarged isometric view showing the drive module and fluid module in the second alignment state.
[0034] Figure 6E This is an enlarged isometric view showing the drive module installed on the fluid module.
[0035] Figure 7A This is an enlarged isometric exploded view showing the interface between the nozzle and the fluid module.
[0036] Figure 7B This is an enlarged isometric view showing the nozzle installed on the fluid module.
[0037] Figure 8A This is an isometric view of the nozzle.
[0038] Figure 8B This is an exploded view of the nozzle.
[0039] Figure 8C It is along Figure 8A An enlarged sectional view taken from the line CC.
[0040] Figure 9 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the nozzle connected to the outlet adapter of the nozzle.
[0041] Figure 10 This is an isometric view of the delivery pump installed in the tank and including the gooseneck nozzle.
[0042] Figure 11 This is an isometric view of the delivery pump, with the drive housing removed and another embodiment including the outlet connector.
[0043] Figure 12A This is an isometric view of the delivery pump.
[0044] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A The exploded view of the delivery pump shown.
[0045] Figure 12C yes Figure 12A The pump shown is along Figure 12A The sectional view is taken by line CC.
[0046] Figure 13A This is an exploded 3D view of the delivery pump.
[0047] Figure 13B It is an enlarged, partially exploded isometric view showing the adapter and mounting frame.
[0048] Figure 13C This is an enlarged isometric view showing the adapter on the mounting frame, with the adapter lock in an unsecured state.
[0049] Figure 13D This is an enlarged isometric view showing the adapter on the mounting frame, with the adapter lock in a fixed position.
[0050] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the dosage method. Detailed Implementation
[0051] This disclosure generally relates to transfer pumps. For example, transfer pumps can be used to pump drywall slurry, fillers, and other viscous liquids. Drywall slurry is used in construction applications, such as filling gaps in walls and ceilings (especially drywall), smoothing, and creating sections of walls, ceilings, and other structures. This slurry can be mixed on-site, for example, in a 5-gallon bucket, or it can be prefabricated for transport and then opened on-site. The slurry is pumped from the bucket to a dispensing tool. The dispensing tool then distributes the slurry to the application site, such as walls, ceilings, and other structures, and then typically smooths it before drying it in place. This slurry typically consists of water, limestone, expanded perlite, ethylene-vinyl acetate polymer, attapulgite, and other components. It should be understood that while pumps for transferring slurry from buckets will be discussed herein as examples, pumps and other features can be used to transfer other materials from other types of reservoirs.
[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of the delivery pump 10. The delivery pump 10 includes a drive module 12 and a fluid module 14. The drive module 12 includes a motor 16, a control module 18, a user interface 20, and a power supply 22. The control module 18 includes a control circuit 24 and a memory 26. The fluid module 14 includes a fluid displacement component 28.
[0053] Transfer pump 10 is configured to deliver fluid (e.g., slurry) from a fluid container (e.g., a bucket) to a downstream location (e.g., a dispensing tool). Transfer pump 10 is electrically powered to pump material. Transfer pump 10 is an electric pump that does not rely on mechanical input to power the pump. Drive module 12 is configured to power fluid module 14 to pump slurry. Transfer pump 10 is configured to output slurry at pressures up to about 8.6 MPa (about 125 psi). In some examples, transfer pump 10 is configured to output slurry at pressures between about 0.28 MPa (about 40 psi) and about 0.62 MPa (about 90 psi). In some examples, transfer pump 10 is configured to output slurry at pressures between about 0.07 MPa (about 10 psi) and about 0.21 MPa (about 30 psi), but other ranges are possible. In some examples, no pressure sensor measures the output pressure from transfer pump 10. Similarly, in some examples, there is no pressure indicator to indicate the output pressure within the pumping system. However, it should be understood that not all embodiments are so limited.
[0054] The drive module 12, including electronic components, is separated from the fluid module 14 to isolate the electronic components from the slurry or other fluids. In the illustrated example, the drive module 12 may be removably mounted to the fluid module 14. However, it should be understood that in various other examples, the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 may be permanently attached, such that the delivery pump 10 is an integrated system having the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14, which represent different parts of the integrated system. The drive module 12 may be structurally supported by the fluid module 14. The drive module 12 includes the electronic components of the delivery pump 10. In some examples, the fluid module 14 does not include electronic components. In some examples, the fluid module 14 is not electrically connected to the drive module 12. The fluid module 14 is configured to contact the slurry or other fluid in a reservoir during pumping, wherein the reservoir may also be referred to as a tank or material supply, etc.
[0055] Power source 22 is configured to provide power to other components of drive module 12. For example, power source 22 may include one or more batteries or wires configured to connect to a power outlet to receive power from the power outlet. Power source 22 may also be referred to as a power source.
[0056] Electric motor 16 receives power from power source 22 and generates a mechanical output to power the pumping of fluid module 14. Electric motor 16 is configured to cause a linear reciprocating motion of piston 28. In some examples, electric motor 16 is configured to generate a rotary output, although it should be understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, electric motor 16 can be a linear actuator, such as a solenoid. A conversion driver can be connected to electric motor 16 to convert the rotary motion output by electric motor 16 into a linear reciprocating motion, which is provided to piston 28 to drive the reciprocating motion of piston 28, such as an eccentric crank or Scottish yoke.
[0057] Control module 18 is operatively connected to motor 16 to control the operation of motor 16. For example, control module 18 may be electrically and / or communicatively connected to motor 16. Control module 18 is configured to perform any of the functions discussed herein, including receiving output from any source mentioned herein, detecting any condition or event mentioned herein, and controlling the operation of the delivery pump 10 and its components mentioned herein. Control module 18 is configured to store software, implement functions, and / or process instructions. Control module 18 may have any suitable configuration for controlling the operation of motor 16, collecting data, processing data, etc. Control module 18 may perform any of the electrical-based functions mentioned herein. Control module 18 may include processing circuitry, which may or may not include microchips or other types of chips. Control module 18 may receive power from power source 22 (e.g., a power outlet or battery) and may direct power to motor 16.
[0058] Control module 18 may include hardware, firmware, and / or stored software. Control module 18 may be of any type suitable for operation according to the techniques described herein. Although control module 18 is shown as a single unit, it should be understood that control module 18 may be mounted on one or more circuit boards. In some examples, control module 18 may be implemented as multiple discrete circuit sub-components.
[0059] In one example, control circuitry 24 is configured to implement functions and / or process instructions. For example, control circuitry 24 may process instructions stored in memory 26. Examples of control circuitry 24 may include one or more of a processor, microprocessor, controller, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry.
[0060] Memory 26 can be configured to store information before, during, and / or after operation. Memory 26 can be configured to store software that controls the operation of motor 16 when executed by control circuitry 24. In some examples, memory 26 is used to store program instructions executed by control circuitry 24. In one example, memory 26 is used by software or an application running on control module 18 to temporarily store information during program execution.
[0061] In some examples, memory 26 is described as a computer-readable storage medium. In some examples, a computer-readable storage medium can include a non-transitory medium. The term "non-transitory" can mean that the storage medium is not contained in a carrier wave or propagating signal. In some examples, a non-transitory storage medium can store data that may change over time (e.g., in RAM or a cache). In some examples, memory 26 is temporary memory, meaning that the primary purpose of memory 26 is not long-term storage. In some examples, memory 26 is described as volatile memory, meaning that memory 26 does not retain its stored contents when the power supply to the delivery pump 10 is turned off. Examples of volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), and other forms of volatile memory.
[0062] In some examples, memory 26 also includes one or more computer-readable storage media. Memory 26 can be configured to store a larger amount of information than volatile memory. Memory 26 can also be configured for long-term storage of information. In some examples, memory 26 includes non-volatile storage elements. Examples of such non-volatile storage elements may include magnetic hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks, flash memory, or electrically programmable memory (EPROM) or electrically erasable programmable (E-EPROM) memory.
[0063] User interface 20 can be any graphical and / or mechanical interface that allows a user to interact with control module 18. User interface 20 may include one or more actuable inputs that a user can manipulate to provide various inputs to control module 18 to operate the transfer pump 10. User interface 20 can be used to enable control module 18 to power motor 16 to operate transfer pump 10. User interface 20 may include one or more buttons, dials, touchscreens, or other input instructions, such as control circuitry 24. For example, an actuation input (e.g., by pressing a button) can cause control circuitry 24 to power motor 16 to operate transfer pump 10. Transfer pump 10 can operate to pump as long as the input is engaged, thereby releasing the input to de-energize motor 16.
[0064] In some examples, user interface 20 may implement a graphical user interface displayed on a display device for presenting information to and / or receiving input from the user. User interface 20 may be configured as an input and / or output device to receive information from and provide information to the user. Some examples of user interface 20 may include one or more of the following: a sound card, a video graphics card, speakers, a display device (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, etc.), a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, or other types of devices, to facilitate the input and / or output of information in a form understandable to the user or machine. In some examples, user interface 20 includes physical navigation and control elements, such as physically actuated buttons or other physical navigation and control elements. Generally, user interface 20 may include any input and / or output devices and control elements that enable the user to interact with control module 18.
[0065] Drive module 12 is configured to be mounted to fluid module 14 at connection 30. Drive module 12 is structurally supported by fluid module 14 at connection 30, and drive module 12 provides mechanical reciprocating motion to power pumping of fluid module 14. Although fluid module 14 is described as including piston 28, it should be understood that fluid module 14 may include any desired reciprocating fluid moving part, such as a piston, diaphragm, or part formed by any other desired construction. Drive module 12 can provide mechanical reciprocating motion to power the reciprocating motion of piston 28 at connection 30. Connection 30 includes a dynamic connection interface and a static connection interface. Fluid module 14 is mechanically connected to drive module 12 at connection 30. The dynamic and static interfaces facilitate mounting drive module 12 to fluid module 14 such that drive module 12 is supported by fluid module 14 and can power fluid module 14 to power pumping of fluid module 14. Drive module 12 can be disengaged from fluid module 14, for example, by disconnecting the static and dynamic interfaces forming connection 30 without disconnecting any electrical connections.
[0066] The dynamic interface is formed by the connection between the dynamic component 32a of the drive module 12 and the dynamic component 32b of the fluid module 14. The drive module 12 provides power to the fluid module 14 through the dynamic interface. For example, a piston 28 can form the dynamic component 32b of the fluid module 14, which engages with a reciprocating member of the drive module 12, which forms the dynamic component 32a of the drive module. The piston 28 can be connected to the reciprocating member through a slotted interface, a pin interface, or any other desired connection method.
[0067] The static interface is formed by the connection between the static component 34a of the drive module 12 (e.g., the support frame of the drive module 12) and the static component 34b of the fluid module 14 (e.g., the support frame of the fluid module 14). The drive module 12 can be supported by the structure of the fluid module 14 at the static interface. The drive module 12 can be fixed to the fluid module 14 at the static interface to prevent the drive module 12 from being detached from the fluid module 14.
[0068] During operation, control module 18 controls the operation of motor 16 to control the pumping of transfer pump 10. The user can instruct transfer pump 10 to pump slurry by providing a distribution command via user interface 20. For example, the user can input a distribution command by pressing a button on user interface 20. In some examples, control module 18 is configured to operate motor 16 as soon as a pumping command is provided (e.g., as long as the user continues to press the button). Releasing the button causes control module 18 to remove power from motor 16 to stop pumping by transfer pump 10.
[0069] Users can input and provide commands to the control module 18 through the user interface 20. Users can operate the transfer pump by providing input to the control module via the user interface, for example, by pressing a button on the user interface. Pressing a button causes the control module to power the motor 16 to operate the transfer pump 10 and cause the transfer pump 10 to pump. The transfer pump 10 can operate as long as input is provided, and removing the input de-energizes the motor 16.
[0070] The control module 18 can be configured to cause the delivery pump 10 to output a predetermined volume of material. The control module 18 can thus enable the delivery pump 10 to operate in a dispensing mode. As used herein, dispensing refers to pumping a predetermined amount of slurry or other fluid through the delivery pump 10. For example, the predetermined amount may correspond to the volume of a slurry dispensing tool or the desired amount that a user wants to load into the slurry dispensing tool.
[0071] A user can provide dispensing commands to the control module 18 via the user interface 20. For example, a first button on the user interface 20 can be configured to provide a pump command, and a second button on the user interface 20 can be configured to provide a dispensing command. The control module 18 provides power to the motor 16 to operate the motor 16, causing the delivery pump 10 to output a predetermined volume. During dispensing, the user can provide a single input to the control module 18 to cause the control module 18 to output a predetermined volume. For example, the user can press and release a dispensing input (e.g., a button), and the control module 18 can then operate the motor 16 to cause the delivery pump 10 to output a predetermined volume. The control module 18 can determine the predetermined volume based on operating parameters such as the rotation of the motor 16, the cycle of the piston 28, the duration of the motor operation, and the number of motor pulses. The operating parameters can be speed and power independent, such that the rotational speed of the motor 16 and the power supplied to the motor 16 do not affect the parameters. For example, the predetermined volume can be associated with the number of motor pulses. The control module 18 can count the motor pulses and determine that the predetermined volume has been allocated based on the actual count of the motor pulses reaching the number of motor pulses associated with the predetermined volume.
[0072] One or more predetermined volumetric quantities can be stored in memory 26. A user can select the desired predetermined volumetric quantity via user interface 20. In some examples, control module 18 can be programmed via user interface 20 to operate motor 16 to pump a predetermined volume of material. For example, a user can use user interface 20 to input a specific volumetric quantity. The user can then use user interface 20 to provide a volumetric quantity command to control module 18 to cause delivery pump 10 to output the predetermined volume. In this way, the user can approach delivery pump 10, attach a slurry dispensing tool to the output of delivery pump 10, press a single button, and receive the desired volume of slurry. When a volumetric quantity command is provided, control module 18 can cause delivery pump 10 to output only the specified volumetric quantity during continuous operation of motor 16.
[0073] In some examples, control module 18 can be configured to learn the dispensing volume and then store it as the dispensing volume. For example, a user can press a button or other input on user interface 20 to put control module 18 into learning mode. In learning mode, control module 18 monitors the operating parameters of delivery pump 10, such as the duration of motor operation, motor speed, number of motor pulses, or other parameters, while the user manually presses a button or other input to operate motor 16, causing delivery pump 10 to pump. The user releases the button or other input, disconnecting motor 16 when the desired dispensing volume has been delivered. Control module 18 can save the operating parameters as dispensing parameters. In subsequent dispensing sessions, a single selection of a button or other input on user interface 20 can cause control module 18 to operate the motor according to the dispensing parameters, such as the same duration, motor speed, or number of motor pulses. In this way, the user can dynamically set a predetermined volume as the dispensing volume according to the specific requirements of the equipment used or the work being performed.
[0074] The control module 18 can be configured to operate the transfer pump 10 in a continuous dispensing mode. In continuous dispensing mode, the control module 18 causes the motor 16 to operate continuously until a stop dispensing command is provided to the control module 18. Operating the transfer pump 10 in continuous dispensing mode facilitates the conveying of bulk materials as well as the cleaning and rinsing of the transfer pump 10.
[0075] During operation, fluid module 14 is positioned in contact with the slurry. Power is supplied from power source 22 to motor 16 to operate motor 16. Motor 16 causes reciprocating linear motion of piston 28, thereby causing piston 28 to pump the slurry. Fluid flows through and exits from fluid module 14. Slurry does not contact or flow through portions of drive module 12.
[0076] Figure 2A This is an isometric view of the transfer pump 10 and the tank 36, shown in cross-section. Figure 2B This is a second isometric view of the transfer pump 10 and the barrel 36. Figure 2CThis is a top view of the transfer pump 10 and the barrel 36. Figures 2A-2C They will be discussed together. The drive module 12, fluid module 14, nozzle 38, and bracket 40 of the delivery pump 10 are shown. The user interface 20, power supply 22, drive housing 42, and door 44 of the drive module 12 are shown. The drive housing 42 includes a handle 46. The mounting frame 48, cylinder 50, and outlet connector 52 of the fluid module 14 are shown. The mounting frame 48 includes a bracket mount 54, a support opening 56, and a receiver 58. The bracket 40 includes legs 60, feet 62, slots 64, brackets 66, and knobs 68. The bracket 66 includes hooks 70 and guide vanes 72. The nozzle 38 includes a tube 74 and a nozzle 76.
[0077] The delivery pump 10 is configured to draw slurry or other fluid from the bucket 36 and output the material through nozzle 76. The drive module 12 contains all the electrical components of the delivery pump 10. The drive module 12 does not contact the slurry or other material during operation. The fluid module 14 is the only part of the delivery pump 10 that comes into contact with the slurry or other material. A portion of the fluid module 14 extends into the bucket 36 and can extend into the slurry within the bucket 36. A portion of the fluid module 14 can be at least partially submerged in the slurry within the bucket 36. In the example shown, the cylinder 50 extends into the bucket 36 and is configured to contact the slurry within the bucket 36. The cylinder 50 can be sized to be inserted into the bucket 36 through an opening smaller than the top opening of the bucket 36. For example, the outer diameter of the cylinder 50 is less than approximately 4.83 cm (approximately 1.9 inches). In this way, the size of the cylinder 50 allows it to be inserted through the colored hole of a standard bucket 36.
[0078] Mounting frame 48 is connected to other components of delivery pump 10 to support them. Drive module 12, cylinder 50, outlet connector 52, and nozzle 38 are each structurally supported directly or indirectly by mounting frame 48.
[0079] Receiver 58 forms part of the static connection between drive module 12 and fluid module 14. In the illustrated example, receiver 58 protrudes from mounting frame 48. Receiver 58 extends from opposite sides of mounting frame 48 to facilitate mounting of drive module 12 relative to fluid module 14 in different orientations. In some examples, multiple receivers 58 may be arranged on the same horizontal (XY) plane. In some examples, each receiver 58 is arranged on the same horizontal plane such that the horizontal plane passes through at least a portion of each receiver 58.
[0080] Each receiver 58 includes at least one receiving opening 78 to receive a post extending from the drive module 12. In the illustrated example, the hole extends fully through each receiver 58 such that the receiving opening 78 at each end of each receiver 58 is associated with a common opening. Receivers 58 can receive posts from either side of the receiver 58 to facilitate mounting the drive module 12 to the fluid module 14 in multiple orientations. The first and second sets of receiving openings 78 on opposite sides of each receiver 58 can be mirror images of each other. Although the mounting frame 48 is shown as including two receivers 58, it should be understood that other numbers of receivers 58 can form a group, such as one, three, four, etc. As discussed in more detail below, the drive module 12 can be mounted to the first side of the receiver 58 to position the drive module 12 outside the space occupied by the barrel 36 (e.g., as...). Figures 2A-2C (As shown). In this state, most or all of the drive module 12 is not positioned above the opening of the barrel 36, but rather radially outside the opening of the barrel 36. The drive module 12 can be mounted to the second side of the receiver 58 to position all or most of the drive module 12 above the opening of the barrel 36, thereby reducing the space occupied by the transfer pump 10 (e.g., as shown). Figure 5A and Figure 5B (As shown).
[0081] A portion of the fluid path through fluid module 14 is formed by mounting frame 48. Cylinder body 50 extends from mounting frame 48 into barrel 36. Cylinder body 50 can be attached to mounting frame 48, for example, by fasteners, such as wing nuts, etc. Cylinder body 50 is along pump axis AA ( Figure 3A and Figure 3B The fluid displacement component of fluid module 14, for example, piston 28 (in...) is elongated. Figure 3A and Figure 3B (Best visible in the center), extending from within the cylinder 50 and through the mounting frame 48, to engage with the drive module 12 at the dynamic interface. The piston 28 can reciprocate on the pump axis AA to pump material.
[0082] The outlet of the delivery pump 10 is formed via a mounting frame 48. An outlet connector 52 is connected to the mounting frame 48 at the pump outlet. The outlet connector 52 can be rigidly connected to the mounting frame 48, for example, by fasteners such as bolts. The outlet connector 52 is connected to the mounting frame 48 to receive material output from the fluid module 14 and is configured to supply that material to the nozzle 38. The outlet connector 52 is circumferentially disposed between the first and second bracket mounts 54. The outlet connector 52 is mounted to a third side of the mounting frame 48, which is different from the first and second sides from which the bracket mounts 54 extend.
[0083] Nozzle 38 is removably mounted to the outlet end of outlet connector 52. Nozzle 76 is disposed at the end of nozzle 38 opposite to outlet connector 52. In the illustrated example, tube 74 is mounted to outlet connector 52 and nozzle 76 is mounted to tube 74. In the illustrated example, nozzle 76 has a duckbill-shaped configuration with two relatively long sides and two relatively short sides defining the outlet opening for mud exiting nozzle 76. Nozzle 76 is configured to engage with the inlet of a mud dispensing tool. As discussed in more detail below, nozzle 38 is mounted to outlet connector 52 such that nozzle 38 can be repositioned relative to outlet connector 52 during installation. In some examples, nozzle 38 is rotatable and can rotate about axis BB (in Figure 3A (Optimal visibility) to change the relative orientation of nozzle 76. For example... Figure 2C As shown, the nozzle 38 can be positioned such that the nozzle 76 is positioned above the opening of the bucket 36. The nozzle 38 can be positioned such that the nozzle 76 is oriented outwards during the filling process of the mud dispensing tool. Figure 2B Then the nozzle 38 can be rotated inward so that the nozzle 76 is positioned in the bucket 36 when no mud is being dispensed (e.g., between fillings). Figure 2C Above. Positioning nozzle 76 above bucket 36 ensures that any material dripping or leaking from nozzle 76 is captured by bucket 36. Thus, nozzle 76 can be positioned in a more convenient location during pumping (e.g., outward) and in a different location (e.g., inward) when not pumping to prevent spills and mess on site.
[0084] A bracket 40 is connected to the delivery pump 10 to support and stabilize it. The bracket 40 is directly connected to the fluid module 14. More specifically, a leg 60 is connected to a mounting frame 48. The bracket 40 extends downwards from the mounting frame 48 toward the ground. The leg 60 forms the vertical portion of the bracket 40, and the foot 62 forms the horizontal portion. The foot 62 extends from the bottom end of the leg 60. The foot 62 can contact the ground to stabilize and support the delivery pump 10 on the ground. The leg 60 and foot 62 are positioned outside the barrel 36, while the cylinder 50 is positioned inside the barrel 36. Thus, the mounting frame 48 spans (and can engage) the annular lip of the barrel 36. In this way, the delivery pump 10 can be independently supported on the barrel 36. For example, the delivery pump 10 can pump while being supported only by the foot 62 and the barrel 36. In the example shown, the foot 62 is completely outside the space occupied by the barrel 36. The foot 62 is not positioned between the barrel 36 and the ground. In some examples, the foot 62, or a portion thereof, may extend below the barrel 36 such that a portion of the foot 62 is within the space occupied by the barrel 36. Therefore, the barrel 36 and any material therein can be further stabilized for the delivery pump 10. In some examples, the foot 62 may be formed by multiple feet. For example, a first foot 62 may be positioned outside the space occupied by the barrel 36, and a second foot 62 may be positioned within the space occupied by the barrel 36, for example, at least partially below the barrel 36. In some examples, the foot 62 may extend annularly around the base of the leg 60.
[0085] A slot 64 is formed in the leg 60. The slot 64 is disposed between the lateral sides 80a, 80b of the leg 60. A bracket 66 is connected to the support 40 at the slot 64. A knob 68 is disposed on the side of the leg 60 opposite to the bracket 66 and is connected to the bracket 66 by a component (e.g., a fastener) extending through the slot 64. The knob 68 and the bracket 66 form an assembly for contacting and engaging with the barrel 36, such that the delivery pump 10 is at least partially supported by the barrel 36. A hook 70 extends over and engages with the annular lip of the barrel 36. A guide wing 72 is wound around the lateral sides 80a, 80b of the leg 60 to orient the bracket 66 relative to the leg 60 and lock the orientation of the bracket 66 relative to the leg 60. The knob 68 can be rotated in a first direction (one of clockwise and counterclockwise) to secure the bracket 66 in a vertical position relative to the leg 60. Knob 68 can be rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction to release bracket 66, allowing bracket 66 to move vertically along slot 64 and relative to leg 60. This allows bracket 66 to be engaged with various types of barrels of different sizes, for example, different heights.
[0086] An interface between the delivery pump 10 and the bucket 36 secures the bucket 36 to the delivery pump 10. In some examples, an interface between the bracket 40 and the bucket 36 secures the bucket 36 to the delivery pump 10. For example, a knob 68 and a bracket 66 secure the bucket 36 and the bracket 40 together, such that lifting the delivery pump 10 also lifts the bucket 36 and the associated slurry within it. In some examples, a support member may be formed on or by a portion of the delivery pump 10 to support the bucket 36 relative to the delivery pump 10 when the delivery pump 10 is lifted by the handle 46. For example, a hook may protrude from a portion of the delivery pump 10, such as from the mounting frame 48. The hook may be positioned such that when the delivery pump 10 is lifted, the bucket's handle extends over and is supported by the hook. The bucket 36 can be lifted by the delivery pump 10 via the support member that engages with the handle of the bucket 36.
[0087] The bracket 40 is connected to the mounting frame at the bracket mount 54. The bracket mount 54 extends from the mounting frame 48. The bracket mount 54 may include cylindrical protrusions extending from the mounting frame 48, but other shapes are also possible. In some examples, the protrusions forming the bracket mount 54 may be positioned on the same horizontal (XZ) plane. In some examples, each bracket mount 54 is positioned on the same horizontal plane such that the horizontal plane passes through at least a portion of each bracket mount 54. A support opening 56 extends into the post forming the bracket mount 54. The support opening 56 is configured to receive fasteners to attach the bracket 40 to the delivery pump 10. For example, the support opening 56 may be threaded to receive threaded fasteners. In the illustrated example, each bracket mount 54 is formed by multiple sets of posts, for example, pairs of posts. Each set of posts may include one or more walls that extend between and connect the individual posts to further support the pairs of posts forming the bracket mount 54 relative to each other. In the example shown, a first bracket mount 54 extends from a first side of the mounting frame 48 and a second bracket mount 54 extends from a second opposite side of the mounting frame 48. The first and second bracket mounts 54 may be mirror images of each other. Although each bracket mount 54 is shown as comprising two posts, it should be understood that other numbers of posts may form each bracket mount 54, such as one, three, four, etc. Furthermore, although the delivery pump 10 is described as comprising two bracket mounts, it should be understood that the mounting frame 48 may have a single bracket mount 54 or more than two bracket mounts 54. For example, a third bracket mount 54 may extend from the mounting frame 48, mounted to the outlet connector 52 of the mounting frame 48, to a fourth opposite side. The third bracket mount 54 may be circumferentially disposed between the first and second bracket mounts 54.
[0088] Fasteners extend through bracket 40 and into support opening 56 to secure bracket 40 to delivery pump 10. Bracket mount 54 facilitates mounting bracket 40 to delivery pump 10 in different orientations. In the first orientation shown, outlet connector 52 is positioned on a first lateral side of bracket 40, for example, the opposite right side of bracket 40 when viewed from behind towards tank 36. Fasteners can be removed to detach bracket 40 from mounting frame 48. Bracket 40 can be aligned with opposite bracket mount 54 to change the relative orientation of the outlet of fluid module 14. When bracket 40 is mounted to opposite bracket mount 54, outlet connector 52 is positioned on another lateral side of bracket 40, for example, the opposite left side of bracket 40 when viewed from behind towards tank 36. Bracket 40 can be mounted on opposite sides of mounting frame 48 as needed by the user to facilitate handling and movement of delivery pump 10 around the work site. For example, bracket 40 can be mounted in different positions to facilitate right-hand and left-hand transport of delivery pump 10.
[0089] In the example shown, drive module 12 is removably mounted to fluid module 14. Drive module 12 is vertically supported above fluid module 14. Drive module 12 is supported by fluid module 14 such that all drive modules 12 are vertically positioned above tank 36. Therefore, no part of drive module 12 vertically overlaps with any part of tank 36. Therefore, the horizontal plane extending through tank 36 does not extend through drive module 12. All components of drive module 12 are raised above the maximum liquid level within tank 36. Drive housing 42 surrounds various other components of drive module 12, such as motor 16. In some examples, drive housing 42 may be a clamshell-like housing enclosing the various components of drive module 12. Drive housing 42 may be formed of polymer or metal, etc. As discussed in more detail below, drive module 12 is mounted to fluid module 14 at a static connection formed at least partially by receiver 58 of mounting frame 48. Although drive module 12 and fluid module 14 are described as separable components, it should be understood that in various examples, drive module 12 and fluid module 14 may be permanently attached such that the delivery pump 10 is an integrated system in which drive module 12 and fluid module 14 represent different parts of the integrated system.
[0090] A handle 46 is formed on the top side of the drive housing 42. The handle 46 is configured to be gripped by a user's hand. In some examples, a user can grip the handle 46 to simultaneously pick up and carry the delivery pump 10 and the bucket 36. A user can pick up and carry the delivery pump 10 by gripping the handle 46 with one hand. The center of gravity of the delivery pump 10 may extend through the handle 46 to facilitate carrying and transporting the delivery pump 10.
[0091] A door 44 is disposed on the drive housing 42 and covers the receiving chamber in which the dynamic connection between the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 is formed. The door 44 is movable to expose the receiving chamber and allow the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 to be connected and disconnected.
[0092] User interface 20 is formed on drive housing 42. User interface 20 is formed on the top of drive housing 42 near power source 22. In the illustrated example, user interface 20 is vertically positioned above the battery forming power source 22. User interface 20 is positioned at the rear end of handle 46 on the end of drive housing 42 opposite to the receiving chamber covered by door 44. User interface 20 is radially positioned between handle 46 and power source 22 relative to pump axis AA. In the illustrated example, handle 46, user interface 20, and power source 22 are aligned on a radial line extending from pump axis AA. The radial line may extend the entire length of handle 46 between its front and rear ends. Power source 22 is vertically positioned above barrel 36. Figure 2C In this configuration, the power supply 22 is radially positioned outside the space occupied by the tank 36, with the drive module 12 mounted on one side of the same mounting frame 48 as the bracket 40. During operation, the user can refill the tank 36 with additional material to continue using the same pump arrangement without switching tank 36. Positioning the power supply 22 outside the space occupied by the tank 36 prevents accidental spillage of fluid onto the power supply 22 when the tank 36 is refilled.
[0093] In various embodiments, the power source 22 includes a modular battery pack that can be mounted to a battery mount fixed to the delivery pump 10. For example, the battery mount can be fixed to the drive module 12 portion of the delivery pump 10. The modular battery pack powers the electric motor 16 via the battery mount. The modular battery pack can be detached from the battery mount for charging. As shown, the battery mount is located externally to the delivery pump 10, exposing the modular battery pack directly to the atmosphere. For example, the modular battery pack is not contained behind a door or within any housing. The battery mount is positioned externally away from the footprint of the tank 36, preventing the modular battery pack from accidentally falling into the tank, which in most cases would damage the modular battery pack and the fluid in the tank.
[0094] The drive module 12 includes a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The first side of the drive module 12 faces the barrel 36, while the power supply 22 and / or the user interface 20 are located on the second side of the drive module 12.
[0095] The delivery pump 10 is not powered by mechanical input. Instead, it is powered by a power source 22. In the illustrated example, the power source 22 is a battery mounted to the drive housing 42. The battery is mounted on the rear side of the drive housing 42, opposite the side of the fluid module 14 that is dynamically connected to the drive module 12. The battery is vertically positioned below the handle 46. In the illustrated example, the battery is mounted at an angle relative to the pump axis AA. The battery can slide upward and radially away from the barrel 36 and the pump axis AA during removal and downward and radially toward the barrel 36 and the pump axis AA during installation. The orientation of the power source 22 facilitates rapid battery installation and removal, minimizes downtime, and improves efficiency.
[0096] The separability of the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 allows for the separate and easy cleaning of the fluid module 14 in contact with materials without worrying about wetting its electronic components. Furthermore, the relatively more expensive drive module 12, compared to a fluid module 14 without electronic components, can be stored separately and safely when the delivery pump 10 is not in use. Users can also have multiple fluid modules 14 at different work sites and power them using one or more separable drive modules 12. Therefore, users only need to transport the drive module 12 between work sites. The drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 thus offer reduced costs and facilitate rapid and easy transport between and within work sites.
[0097] Figure 3A It is along Figure 2A The cross-sectional view of the delivery pump 10 taken from line 3A-3A in the figure. Figure 3B It is along Figure 2A The cross-sectional view of the delivery pump 10 is taken from line 3B-3B. For clarity, in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In each of these, the drive housing 42 is removed. The delivery pump 10 includes a drive module 12, a fluid module 14, and a nozzle 38.
[0098] The drive module 12 is shown, comprising a motor 16, a door 44, a transmission 82, a crank 84, a drive frame 86, and a drive plate 88. The motor 16 includes a motor pinion 90. The transmission 82 includes a first stage 92 having a first-stage pinion 94 and a first gear 96, and a second stage 98 having a second-stage shaft 100 and a second gear 102. The crank 84 includes an eccentric wheel 104, an arm 106, and a drive link 108. The drive link 108 includes a receiving slot 110. The drive frame 86 is shown, comprising a drive cavity 112, a recess 114, a motor hole 116, a first-stage hole 118a, and a second-stage opening 120. The drive plate 88 includes a first-stage hole 118b, a motor opening 122, and a second-stage hole 124.
[0099] The piston 28, mounting frame 48, cylinder 50, outlet connector 52, inlet check valve 126, traveling check valve 128, pump inlet 130, pump outlet 132, sealing nut 134, and upper seal 136 of the fluid module 14 are shown. The bracket mount 54 and bracket 138 of the mounting frame 48 are shown. The piston 28 includes an upper piston portion 140 and a lower piston portion 142. The upper piston portion 140 includes a head 144, a neck 146, an upper body 148, and a connecting hole 150. The lower piston portion 142 includes an upper end 152, a lower end 154, and a lower body 156. The inlet end 158 and outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52 are shown. The tube 74 and nozzle 76 of the nozzle 38 are shown.
[0100] As discussed in more detail below, drive module 12 is mounted to fluid module 14 such that drive module 12 is structurally supported by fluid module 14 and drives the reciprocating motion of piston 28 of fluid module 14 to induce pumping. Drive frame 86 is statically connected to mounting frame 48. Fluid module 14 supports drive module 12 via static connection. As discussed in more detail below, electric motor 16 is dynamically connected to piston 28 to drive the reciprocating motion of piston 28. Drive module 12 provides power to the pumping of transfer pump 10 via dynamic connection.
[0101] Motor 16 is configured to be powered by power supply 22 ( Figures 1-2C It receives power and generates a mechanical output to cause pumping of fluid module 14. Motor 16 is an electric motor, such as a brushed or brushless direct current (DC) motor or an alternating current (AC) induction motor, and other options.
[0102] A drive plate 88 is connected to a drive frame 86 to define a gear cavity 162, within which a transmission 82 is at least partially disposed. The drive plate 88 supports a motor 16, a first stage 92, and a second stage 98. The motor 16 is mounted to the rear of the drive plate 88. The motor 16 cantilevered from the drive plate 88 in a direction away from the drive cavity 112. The motor 16 cantilevered away from the pump axis AA. A portion of the motor 16 extends into the gear cavity 162 through a motor opening 122 in the drive plate 88. A motor pinion 90 is supported by a bearing disposed in a motor bore 116 in the drive frame 86. The motor pinion 90 engages with the first gear 96 to provide power to the transmission 82. The motor 16 is positioned on an axis CC such that the motor pinion 90 rotates coaxially with the axis CC.
[0103] The transmission 82 is a two-stage reduction gear system configured to receive the rotational output from the electric motor 16 and provide the rotational output to the crank 84 to drive the reciprocating motion of the piston 28. The transmission 82 is configured to reduce the rotational speed and increase the torque.
[0104] The first stage 92 is completely disposed within the gear cavity 162. The first stage pinion 94 is supported by a first bearing disposed in a first stage hole 118a formed in the drive frame 86 and a second bearing disposed in a first stage hole 118b formed in the drive plate 88. The first stage pinion 94 engages with the second gear 102 to drive the rotation of the second stage 98. The first stage 92 is disposed on the axis DD such that the first stage 92 rotates coaxially with the axis DD.
[0105] The second stage 98 is at least partially disposed within the gear cavity 162. The second stage shaft 100 is supported by a first bearing disposed in the second stage opening 120 of the drive frame 86 and a second bearing disposed in the second stage bore 124 of the drive plate 88. The second stage shaft 100 extends through the second stage opening 120 and extends out of the drive frame 86. The second stage 98 is disposed on the axis EE such that the second stage 98 rotates coaxially with the axis EE.
[0106] The rotation axis CC of motor 16 is transverse to the pump axis AA. The rotation axis CC of motor 16 may be orthogonal to the pump axis AA. The rotation axis DD of first stage 92 is transverse to the pump axis AA. The rotation axis DD of first stage 92 may be orthogonal to the pump axis AA. The rotation axis EE of second stage 98 is transverse to the pump axis AA. The rotation axis EE of second stage 98 may be orthogonal to the pump axis AA. The rotation axis CC of motor 16 is vertically positioned below axes DD and EE. The rotation axis CC is spaced apart from the mounting frame 48 in the second axial direction AD2, while the cylinder 50 extends relative to the mounting frame 48 in the first axial direction AD1. Motor 16 is axially positioned between fluid module 14 and transmission device 82 along the pump axis AA. Motor 16 is vertically positioned above mounting frame 48. During at least a portion of each pump cycle, motor 16 is vertically positioned above both the dynamic interface between piston 28 and drive linkage 108 and the static interface between mounting frame 48 and drive frame 86. In some examples, axis CC is vertically positioned above both the dynamic and static interfaces throughout operation. In some examples, a portion of the dynamic interface of the delivery pump 10 (e.g., the head 144 of the piston 28) may intersect with or be vertically positioned above the axis CC, for example, when the eccentric wheel 104 is in the top dead center position. The stepped arrangement of the various rotation axes of the motor 16 contributes to the compact mounting arrangement and slim profile of the drive module 12.
[0107] Crank 84 is connected to transmission 82. Crank 84 receives the rotational output from transmission 82 and converts the rotational output into linear reciprocating motion of drive link 108. In the example shown, eccentric wheel 104 is directly connected to the second-stage shaft 100. Arm 106 extends between and connects to eccentric wheel 104 and drive link 108. Rotation of eccentric wheel 104 about axis EE causes linear reciprocating motion of drive link 108 along pump axis AA.
[0108] The drive link 108 is at least partially disposed within the drive chamber 112. A receiving slot 110 is formed in the drive link 108 and configured to receive the head 144 of the piston 28. The receiving slot 110 is open at its front end to allow the head 144 to be inserted and removed radially relative to the pump axis AA and open at its lower end to allow the piston 28 to extend through it. The head 144 is held within the receiving slot 110 by a flange disposed around the lower opening of the receiving slot 110 and engaging the underside of the head 144. The connection between the head 144 and the drive link 108 forms a dynamic interface 14 between the drive module 12 and the fluid module.
[0109] Door 44 is configured to cover the front opening of drive chamber 112. Bracket 138 extends from mounting frame 48 and is disposed between receiving openings 78. Mounting frame 48 may include bracket 138 between each set of receiving openings 78. When door 44 is closed, door 44 can engage with bracket 138 to secure a static connection and lock drive module 12 and fluid module 14 together. Bracket 138 extends into recess 114 on the opposite side of mounting frame 48 that engages with bracket 138 and door 44.
[0110] The fluid module 14 is configured to contact and pump mud. A piston 28 is at least partially disposed within the cylinder 50 and extends through and beyond the upper end of the mounting frame 48 to connect with the drive linkage 108. Throughout operation, the piston 28 overlaps with the entire axial length (sectioned along axis AA) of the mounting frame 48. The axial overlap between the piston 28 and the cylinder 50 varies throughout operation, while the axial overlap between the piston 28 and the mounting frame 48 remains constant.
[0111] Piston 28 includes an upper piston portion 140 connected to the lower piston portion 142. Each of the upper piston portion 140 and the lower piston portion 142 may have a circular cross-section orthogonal to axis AA. At least a portion of the upper piston portion 140 is cylindrical. At least a portion of the lower piston portion 142 is cylindrical.
[0112] The upper piston portion 140 extends out of the mounting frame 48 to connect with the drive link 108. A sealing nut 134 is provided at the upper end of the mounting frame 48. The sealing nut 134 holds the upper seal 136 within the mounting frame 48. The upper piston portion 140 extends through the sealing nut 134 and engages with the upper seal 136. The engagement between the upper piston portion 140 and the upper seal 136 prevents material leakage from the mounting frame 48 surrounding the piston 28.
[0113] A piston head 144 is configured to be disposed in a receiving slot 110. A neck 146 extends from the lower end of the piston head 144 out of the receiving slot 110. The diameter of the neck 146 is smaller than that of the piston head 144 to facilitate the extension of the flange of the drive rod 108 below the piston head 144 to retain the piston head 144 within the receiving slot 110 during reciprocating motion. An upper body 148 extends from the neck 146 such that the neck 146 is axially (along the pump axis AA) between the upper body 148 and the head 144. A connecting hole 150 extends into the upper piston portion 140. The connecting hole 150 extends from the end of the upper piston portion 140 opposite to the head 144 into the upper piston portion 140.
[0114] The lower piston portion 142 is connected to the upper piston portion 140 for reciprocating motion with it. In the illustrated example, the lower piston portion 142 is mounted to the upper piston portion 140 at a connection hole 150. As shown, the diameter of the lower piston portion 142 is smaller than the diameter of the upper piston portion 140. The upper end 152 of the lower piston portion 142 extends into the connection hole 150 to connect the lower piston portion 142 to the upper piston portion 140. For example, the upper end 152 and the connection hole 150 can include interface threads. However, it should be understood that the lower piston portion 142 can be connected to the upper piston portion 140 in any desired manner. The engagement between the upper piston portion 140 and the lower piston portion 142 can be modified to allow for more or less axial overlap between the two portions, thereby altering the position of the traveling check valve 128 within the cylinder body 50.
[0115] Mounting frame 48 supports other components of fluid module 14. Cylinder body 50 is attached to mounting frame 48 and is elongated along axis AA. Cylinder body 50 extends from mounting frame 48 in a first axial direction AD1. For example, cylinder body 50 may include cylinder body plate 164, which is mounted to mounting frame 48, for example, by fasteners, to secure cylinder body 50 to mounting frame 48. In some examples, cylinder body plate 164 is formed separately from cylinder body 50 and cylinder body 50 is connected to cylinder body plate 164, for example, by interface thread connection. Cylinder body 50 is configured to extend into bucket 36 and be at least partially submerged in slurry.
[0116] A pump inlet 130 is formed at the end of the cylinder 50 opposite the mounting frame 48. The pump inlet 130 provides one or more openings through which slurry can enter the fluid module 14. An inlet check valve 126 is located near the pump inlet 130. A traveling check valve 128 is mounted to the lower end 154 of the lower piston portion 142. Both the inlet check valve 126 and the traveling check valve 128 are one-way valves that allow material to flow in one direction and prevent flow in the opposite direction. The traveling check valve 128 is circumferentially sealed to the inner surface of the cylinder 50. The traveling check valve 128 divides the interior of the cylinder 50 into a lower chamber 166 and an upper chamber 168. The inlet check valve 126 can be of any type suitable for facilitating unidirectional inflow into the lower chamber 166. For example, the inlet check valve 126 can be a baffle valve or a ball valve, etc. The traveling check valve 128 can be of any type suitable for facilitating unidirectional flow from the lower chamber 166 to the upper chamber 168. For example, the traveling check valve 128 can be a baffle valve or a ball valve, etc.
[0117] Pump outlet 132 is formed in mounting frame 48. The flow path of material through fluid module 14 is as follows: entering lower chamber 166 through pump inlet 130 and inlet check valve 126, entering upper chamber 168 through traveling check valve 128, reaching mounting frame 48 through upper chamber 168, and reaching pump outlet 132 through mounting frame 48. Therefore, cylinder body 50 and mounting frame 48 each define at least a portion of the flow path through fluid module 14.
[0118] The outlet connector 52 is attached to the mounting frame 48 near the pump outlet 132. The inlet end 158 of the outlet connector 52 engages with the mounting frame 48. Pumped material enters the outlet connector 52 through the inlet end 158, flows through the flow path defined by the outlet connector 52, and exits the outlet connector 52 through the outlet end 160. In the illustrated example, the outlet connector 52 is an elbow defining a tortuous fluid path. The outlet connector 52 can redirect a generally horizontal flow of material from the inlet end 158 to a generally vertical flow at the outlet end 160. In some examples, the outlet connector 52 may be configured to have a 90-degree bend in the flow path. The flow axis of the flow exiting the outlet connector 52 is transverse to the flow axis of the flow entering the outlet connector 52. In some examples, the flow axes may be orthogonal.
[0119] Nozzle 38 is mounted to outlet connector 52. Tube 74 extends from outlet connector 52. Nozzle 76 is mounted to the end of tube 74 opposite to outlet connector 52. In the illustrated example, a portion of nozzle 38 extends into outlet end 160, and a seal is formed between tube 74 and outlet connector 52 within outlet connector 52. For example, an annular seal, such as an elastomeric seal like an O-ring or U-cup, may be provided between outlet connector 52 and tube 74 within outlet connector 52. A sealing groove may be formed on the inner wall of outlet connector 52 to receive the seal. When nozzle 38 is separated from outlet connector 52, the seal may remain within outlet connector 52.
[0120] The tube 74 extends vertically from the outlet end 160. The tube 74 includes a bend configured to redirect the fluid flow through the tube 74 from a generally vertical straight flow at the interface between the tube 74 and the outlet connector 52 into a generally horizontal flow at the interface between the tube 74 and the nozzle 76. In some examples, the bend in the tube 74 can be approximately 90 degrees. The flow axis of the flow exiting the nozzle 38 is transverse to the flow axis of the flow entering the nozzle 38. In some examples, the flow axes may be orthogonal.
[0121] The nozzle 38 is configured such that the nozzle 76 is vertically positioned above the drive module 12. The nozzle 76 is vertically positioned above each axis CC, DD, and EE. The nozzle 76 can be spaced further from the mounting frame 48 in the axial direction AD2 than any of the motor 16, the first stage 92, or the second stage 98. Therefore, the nozzle 76 is positioned in a convenient, ergonomic location for dispensing materials, for example, to a mud dispensing tool.
[0122] During operation, drive module 12 powers fluid module 14 to induce pumping. Electric motor 16 is powered and generates a rotational output at motor pinion 90. Electric motor 16 drives transmission 82, which outputs rotational motion to crank 84. Crank 84 converts the rotational motion into linear reciprocating motion of connecting rod 108. Figure 3A and Figure 3B Starting from the bottom position of the center of the dead center shown, the drive link 108 is pulled upward along the pump axis AA, and the piston 28 is pulled upward through the suction stroke.
[0123] As piston 28 moves upward during the suction stroke, traveling check valve 128 closes and moves upward within cylinder 50 to reduce the volume of upper chamber 168 and increase the volume of lower chamber 166. The increase in the volume of lower chamber 166 draws material through pump inlet 130 and inlet check valve 126 into lower chamber 166. The decrease in the volume of upper chamber 168 forces material in upper chamber 168 upward into mounting frame 48 and out through pump outlet 132. After the upward stroke is complete, crank 84 switches to pressure stroke and drives piston 28 downward. As piston 28 moves downward during the pressure stroke, traveling check valve 128 moves downward within cylinder 50 to increase the volume of upper chamber 168 and decrease the volume of lower chamber 166. The downward movement of traveling check valve 128 increases the pressure in lower chamber 166, closing inlet check valve 126. The traveling check valve 128 opens, and material flows from the lower chamber 166 through the traveling check valve 128 to the upper chamber 168. After completing the downward stroke, piston 28 completes a pump cycle, which includes an upward stroke or suction stroke and a downward stroke or pressure stroke. Crank 84 reverses again through the upward stroke, and piston 28 moves again. The reciprocating motion of piston 28 pumps material from pump inlet 130 to pump outlet 132. Pump outlet 132 supplies material to outlet connector 52, which guides the material upward and to nozzle 38. The material flows through nozzle 38 and is output from delivery pump 10 through nozzle 76.
[0124] The delivery pump 10 is a dual-displacement pump, meaning that the delivery pump 10 outputs material during each of the upstroke and downstroke phases of the piston 28. In some examples, the operation is balanced, such that for each complete pump cycle—each pump cycle including both upstroke and downstroke—50% of the volume is output during the upstroke and the other 50% during the downstroke. The upper seal 136 can be an O-ring, U-cup, or other type of sealing ring mounted between the exterior of the upper piston portion 140 and the interior of the mounting frame 48 or other body in which the upper piston portion 140 reciprocates. The upper seal 136 prevents material from moving upward through the upper seal 136, thereby directing the material flow out through the pump outlet 132. A traveling check valve 128 defines a lower seal inside the engaging cylinder 50 to seal and facilitate controlled movement of the material during pumping.
[0125] The ratio of the displacement area (e.g., the cross-sectional area orthogonal to the pump axis AA at the sealing interface) of the upper sealing interface between the upper piston portion 140 and the upper seal 136 to the lower sealing interface between the traveling check valve 128 and the cylinder 50 determines the material output ratio of the delivery pump 10 during each upstroke and downstroke. For example, if the displacement area of the upper sealing interface is half that of the lower sealing interface, the delivery pump 10 outputs material at a 1:1 ratio during the upstroke and downstroke. In some examples, the displacement area at the lower interface is twice the displacement area at the upper interface. In some examples, the displacement area at the upper interface is approximately 35%–65% of the displacement area at the lower interface. In some examples, the displacement area at the upper interface is approximately 45%–50% of the displacement area at the lower interface.
[0126] During material pumping, piston 28 generates a pumping reaction force. Piston 28 experiences a downward reaction force during the upward stroke and an upward reaction force during the downward stroke. The upward and downward reaction forces generated during pumping are transmitted through the lower piston portion 142 to the upper piston portion 140, then through the upper piston portion 140 to the crank 84 at the dynamic interface, and from the crank 84 to the drive frame 86. The reaction force travels from the drive frame 86 through the bracket 40 and / or the barrel 36 (…). Figure 2A-2C The reaction force is transmitted to the ground. The bucket 36 can withstand and react to at least a portion of the pump's reaction force. For example, the pump's reaction force can be transmitted to the bucket 36 via the bracket 66.
[0127] The delivery pump 10 offers significant advantages. The drive module 12 is separable from the fluid module 14, allowing complete separation and removal of the electronic components of the delivery pump 10 from its fluid contact portion. The nozzle 76 is vertically positioned above the drive module 12 to provide an ergonomic and convenient location for discharging material from the delivery pump 10. The motor 16 and transmission 82 are vertically stacked to provide a compact drive module 12 for easy transport and storage. The compact drive module 12 also facilitates the use of the delivery pump 10 in confined spaces, such as those common in work sites. The displacement ratio provided by the delivery pump 10 ensures a relatively smooth flow from it, which is beneficial for rapid and efficient filling of slurry dispensing tools.
[0128] Figure 4This is an isometric exploded view of the delivery pump 10, showing the drive module 12 separated from the fluid module 14. The nozzle 38 is shown mounted to the fluid module 14. The drive module 12 is shown with a power supply 22, drive housing 42, door 44, handle 46, drive frame 86, drive linkage 108, and drive chamber 112. The drive frame 86 includes a mounting post 170. The door 44 includes a latch 172. The drive linkage 108 includes a receiving slot 110. The fluid module 14 is shown with a piston 28, mounting frame 48, cylinder 50, and outlet connector 52. The mounting frame 48 includes a bracket mount 54, a support opening 56, a receiver 58, and a bracket 138. The head 144 of the piston 28 is shown.
[0129] The drive frame 86 supports other components of the drive module 12. The drive housing 42 is mounted to and supported by the drive frame 86. A mounting post 170 protrudes from the drive frame 86 and forms part of the static interface between the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14. In the example shown, the mounting post 170 forms a static component 34a of the drive frame 86. The mounting post 170 is configured to extend into the receiver 58 through a receiving opening 78 on either side of the receiver 58. The mounting post 170 engages with the receiver 58 such that the drive frame 86 is supported by the mounting frame 48. The mounting post 170 and the receiver 58 form the static interface between the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14. Although the mounting post 170 is shown as extending from the drive module 12 and the receiving opening 78 is shown as forming in the fluid module 14, it should be understood that the mounting post 170 can extend from the fluid module 14, for example, from the mounting frame 48, and the receiving opening 78 can be formed on the drive module 12, for example, on the drive frame 86. Therefore, a static interface can be formed by a portion of the fluid module 14 being received by a portion of the drive module 12.
[0130] A drive cavity 112 is formed at the lower front end of the drive module 12. The drive cavity 112 has an opening through the front side and an opening through the lower side. A drive linkage 108 is at least partially disposed within the drive cavity 112 and configured to reciprocate within the drive cavity 112. The drive linkage 108 forms a crank 84. Figure 3A and 3B ) along the pump axis AA ( Figure 3A and 3B (As shown) The linear reciprocating motion portion. A receiving slot 110 is formed at the lower end of the drive link 108 and configured to receive part of the piston 28. In the example shown, the receiving slot 110 is configured to receive the head 144 of the piston 28. The connection between the drive link 108 and the piston 28 forms a dynamic interface between the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14. The drive link 108 drives the piston 28 to reciprocate along the pump axis AA.
[0131] Door 44 is configured to cover the front opening of drive cavity 112. Door 44 is configured to pivot between an open and a closed state. Latch 172 is disposed on the lateral side of door 44 and configured to engage fastener 174 extending from drive housing 42. Latch 172 may be integrally formed with door 44. Fastener 174 is rotatable to lock door 44 with latch 172 in a closed state, wherein latch 172 is disposed above fastener 174. Fastener 174 is rotatable in the opposite direction to unlock door and allow door 44 to pivot to an open state. Bracket 138 extends from mounting frame 48 and is disposed between receiving openings 78. Mounting frame 48 may include bracket 138 on each side of mounting frame 48 between each set of receiving openings 78. Door 44 may engage bracket 138, wherein door 44 is in a closed state to prevent radial movement of fluid module 14 relative to drive module 12 (relative to axis AA). Door 44 may thereby be statically connected and locked together with drive module 12 and fluid module 14. Fastener 174 can be tightened and loosened by hand without the use of tools. In this way, drive module 12 can be installed into fluid module 14 and removed from fluid module 14 by hand instead of using tools.
[0132] The drive module 12 is removable from the fluid module 14 and can be installed at different locations on the fluid module 14. Therefore, the drive housing 42 can extend in different orientations relative to the axis AA. When the drive module 12 is installed onto the fluid module 14, both a static connection and a dynamic connection can be formed simultaneously. The drive module 12 moves radially toward the fluid module 14 (relative to the axis AA) to insert the mounting post 170 into the receiver 58 to form a static connection and to insert the head 144 into the receiving slot 110 to form a dynamic connection. Once the static and dynamic connections are formed, the door 44 can pivot to a closed state to secure the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 together.
[0133] During removal, door 44 is rotated to the open position to expose drive chamber 112. Drive module 12 moves radially away from fluid module 14 to remove head 144 from receiving slot 110 and retract mounting post 170 from receiving opening 78. Thus, static and dynamic connections can be broken with a single movement. This single movement is accomplished by moving drive module 12 radially away from fluid module 14 relative to pump axis AA. Static and dynamic connections can be formed and broken simultaneously with a single action.
[0134] Figure 5A This is an isometric view of the delivery pump 10 installed in the bucket 36. Figure 5B This is a top view of the transfer pump 10 installed in the tank 36. It will be discussed together. Figure 5A and Figure 5B .exist Figure 5A and Figure 5BIn the diagram, the transfer pump 10 is shown in a compact configuration, with the drive module 12 mounted to the fluid module 14 and positioned above the tank 36. In this compact configuration, the drive module 12 is mounted to the side of the mounting frame 48 opposite to the bracket 40. The bracket 40 is positioned externally to the tank 36, with the drive module 12 positioned above the tank 36.
[0135] In a compact configuration, most or all of the drive module 12 is positioned above the opening of the tank 36, thereby reducing the space occupied by the transfer pump 10. The drive module 12 is mounted to the mounting frame 48 and... Figures 2A-2C The nozzle 38 is located on the opposite side of the position shown. The nozzle 76 can be rotated so that it is not positioned above the drive module 12, thus preventing material from dripping from the nozzle 76 onto the drive module 12 or otherwise contacting it. This compact configuration frees up valuable space in the work area.
[0136] Figure 6A This is an enlarged isometric exploded view of a portion of the delivery pump 10, showing that the interface between the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 is misaligned. Figure 6B It is an enlarged isometric view showing the drive module 12 and fluid module 14 in the first alignment state. Figure 6C This is an enlarged front view showing the drive module 12 and fluid module 14 in the second alignment state. Figure 6D This is an enlarged isometric view showing the drive module 12 and fluid module 14 in the second alignment state. Figure 6E This is an enlarged isometric view showing the drive module 12 installed on the fluid module 14. This will be discussed together. Figures 6A-6E The drive housing 42, door 44, drive frame 86, drive link 108, drive cavity 112, and drive module 12 are shown. The drive frame 86 includes a mounting post 170. The door 44 includes a latch 172. The drive link 108 includes a receiving slot 110. The piston 28, mounting frame 48, cylinder 50, and outlet connector 52 of the fluid module 14 are shown. The bracket mount 54, support opening 56, receiver 58, receiving opening 78, bracket 138, and recess 176 of the mounting frame 48 are shown. The head 144 of the piston 28 is shown.
[0137] As described above, the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14 are separable and can be installed onto different fluid modules 14 and in different orientations relative to the fluid module 14. The drive module 12 is moved radially toward the fluid module 14 (relative to the pump axis AA). Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe fluid module 12 is mounted to the fluid module 14 to form both a dynamic and a static connection. Piston 28 is connected to drive linkage 108 to form a dynamic connection. Each of piston 28 and drive linkage 108 reciprocates along pump axis AA during operation. Mounting post 170 extends into receiver 58 to form a static connection through which the fluid module 14 structurally supports drive module 12. Recesses 176 are formed on the upper surface of each receiver 58.
[0138] like Figure 6A As shown, when the mounting post 170 and the receiving opening 78 are aligned, the piston 28 and the drive linkage 108 may be misaligned, which prevents the drive module 12 from being installed into the fluid module 14. The drive module 12 can be used to reposition the piston 28 to the position where the head 144 is aligned with the receiving slot 110 when the mounting post 170 is aligned with the receiving opening. Figure 6A In the image, piston 28 is shown at a position associated with the end of the upward stroke, and drive link 108 is shown at a position associated with the end of the downward stroke.
[0139] like Figure 6B As shown, the drive module 12 is initially positioned above the fluid module 14 such that the top of the head 144 contacts the bottom of the drive link 108. The drive link 108 and piston 28 are thus aligned but disconnected along the pump axis AA. The drive module 12 moves downward toward the fluid module 14 along the pump axis AA in the axial direction AD1. The drive link 108 pushes the piston 28 downward along the pump axis AA in the direction AD1. The drive module 12 is moved until the mounting post 170 is positioned in the recess 176 on the receiver 58, as shown. Figure 6C and Figure 6D As shown. Because the mounting post 170 is disposed in the groove 176, the vertical distance V1 between the receiving opening 78 and the mounting post 170 is the same as the vertical distance V2 between the head 144 and the receiving slot 110. Therefore, when the mounting post 170 is disposed in the groove 176 to contact the receiver 58 and the head 144 contacts the bottom surface of the drive linkage 108, the components of the delivery pump 10 that form the dynamic connection and the static connection are correctly aligned.
[0140] With the mounting post 170 positioned in the recess 176, the drive module 12 is removed from above the fluid module 14, the mounting post 170 is aligned with the receiving opening 78, and the head 144 is aligned with the receiving slot 110. The drive module 12 is moved radially relative to the pump axis AA and toward the fluid module 14 to mount the drive module onto the fluid module 14, as follows. Figure 6E As shown. Mounting post 170 is received in receiver 58 and head 144 is received in receiving slot 110.
[0141] Before the alignment process begins, piston 28 can be moved to... Figure 6A The position shown. For example, the user can grasp piston 28 and pull it to a position associated with the end of the upstroke before performing alignment. Positioning piston 28 in a position associated with the end of the upstroke facilitates alignment, regardless of the initial position of drive link 108. In the example shown, because drive link 108 is in a position associated with the end of the downstroke, piston 28 is pushed from the fully up position to the fully down position during installation and alignment. However, drive link 108 can be in any position between the positions associated with the end of the upstroke and the end of the downstroke before installation. Placing piston 28 in a position associated with the end of the upstroke before performing alignment allows piston 28 to be repositioned to align with drive link 108, regardless of the initial position of drive link 108.
[0142] The process of aligning and mounting the drive module 12 onto the fluid module 14 offers significant advantages. Regardless of the vertical position of the drive linkage 108 (e.g., between positions associated with the top of the upstroke and the bottom of the downstroke, and including any position associated with the top of the upstroke), placing the mounting post 170 in the recess 176 aligns the head 144 with the receiving slot 110. Therefore, the user does not need to use a trial-and-error process to align the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14. The alignment and mounting process facilitates a quick and efficient connection between the drive module 12 and the fluid module 14. This process further facilitates the quick and efficient exchange of a single drive module 12 between multiple fluid modules 14.
[0143] Figure 7A This is an enlarged isometric exploded view of the interface between nozzle 38 and fluid module 14. Figure 7B This is an enlarged isometric view showing the nozzle 38 installed on the fluid module 14. This will be discussed together. Figure 7A and Figure 7B The piston 28, mounting frame 48, and outlet connector 52 of fluid module 14 are shown. The outlet end 160, nozzle lock 178, and pin 180 of outlet connector 52 are shown. Nozzle lock 178 includes a locking knob 182 and a shaft 184. Pin 180 includes a pin head 186. The inlet adapter 188 and tube 74 of nozzle 38 are shown. Inlet adapter 188 includes a flange 190. Flange 190 includes a notch 192.
[0144] The outlet connector 52 is attached to the mounting frame 48. The nozzle 38 is mounted to the outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52. More specifically, the inlet adapter 188 is configured to extend into the opening at the outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52.
[0145] Pin 180 is disposed near the opening edge at the outlet end 160 of outlet connector 52. Pin head 186 is spaced apart from outlet connector 52 such that a gap is formed between the bottom side of pin head 186 and the top side of outlet end 160 of outlet connector 52. Nozzle lock 178 is connected to outlet connector 52 and, in the illustrated example, extends at least partially through the sidewall of outlet connector 52. Nozzle lock 178 engages with and is supported by outlet connector 52. Knob 182 of nozzle lock 178 is disposed outside outlet connector 52 and locking shaft 184 extends through the wall of outlet connector 52. In some examples, locking shaft 184 is connected to outlet connector 52 via a threaded interface. Nozzle lock 178 is movable between a locked state and an unlocked state, in which nozzle lock 178 secures nozzle 38 to outlet connector 52 so that nozzle 78 (in Figures 8A-8C (Best viewed from the center) The orientation of the nozzle 38 relative to axis BB is fixed, and in the unlocked state, the nozzle 38 can rotate about axis BB and relative to the outlet connector 58. For example, the locking knob 182 can be gripped and rotated to extend the locking shaft 184 further into the outlet connector 52 and engage the inlet adapter 188, thereby fixing the orientation of the nozzle 38 relative to the outlet connector 52. The locking knob 182 can be rotated in the opposite direction to disengage the locking shaft 184 from the inlet adapter 188.
[0146] A tube 74 is connected to and extends from an inlet adapter 188. In some examples, the tube 74 and the inlet adapter 188 may be permanently attached to form a single unit. For example, the tube 74 and the inlet adapter 188 may be integrally formed. In some examples, the tube 74 may be removed from the inlet adapter 188, for example, in the example where the tube 74 is threaded to the inlet adapter 188. A flange 190 extends radially from the inlet adapter 188 relative to the axis BB. A notch 192 is formed on the radially outer edge of the flange 190. In the example shown, the notch 192 is formed as a fan shape on the radially outer edge of the flange 190, but it should be understood that other configurations are also possible. The body of the inlet adapter 188 extends axially from the underside of the flange 190.
[0147] During installation, nozzle 38 is positioned relative to outlet connector 52 such that pin 186 aligns with recess 192. Nozzle 38 from Figure 7A The position shown is lowered to Figure 7BThe position is shown. When tube 74 is mounted to outlet connector 52, the size of notch 192 allows pin head 186 to pass through flange 190. Flange 190 is sized to fit within gap 194 between pin head 186 and outlet connector 52. The height of flange 190 is less than the height of gap 194. Nozzle 38 can be repositioned relative to outlet connector 52, allowing nozzle 76 to point in different orientations relative to axis BB. In the example shown, nozzle 38 is rotatable on axis BB. Although nozzle 38 is configured to rotate about axis BB, outlet connector 52 does not rotate with nozzle 38. Nozzle lock 178 can be locked to hold nozzle 76 in the desired orientation.
[0148] Flange 190 and pin 180 provide a keyed connection, such that alignment of recess 192 with pin 180 allows for the installation and removal of nozzle 38 from outlet connector 52, but misalignment between recess 192 and pin 180 prevents nozzle 38 from being lifted or removed from outlet connector 52. Therefore, the keyed interface allows nozzle 38 to rotate about axis BB, but prevents nozzle 38 from moving axially away from outlet connector 52 along axis BB when misaligned. When pumped under pressure, the keyed interface prevents nozzle 38 from being ejected from outlet connector 52. The keyed interface between nozzle 38 and outlet connector 52 facilitates tool-free installation of nozzle 38 on outlet connector 52 and tool-free removal of nozzle 38 from outlet connector 52.
[0149] Figure 8A This is an isometric view of nozzle 38. Figure 8B This is a partial exploded view of nozzle 38. Figure 8C It is along Figure 8A An enlarged sectional view of line CC. This will be discussed together. Figures 8A-8C The diagram shows a tube 74 of nozzle 38, a nozzle 76, an inlet adapter 188, an outlet adapter 196, a clamp 198, and a nozzle seal 200. Nozzle 76 includes an outlet orifice 202, a nozzle slot 204, and a sealing groove 206. Inlet adapter 188 includes a flange 190 with a notch 192. Outlet adapter 196 includes an annular groove 208.
[0150] Pipe 74 is connected to each of inlet adapter 188 and outlet adapter 196. Inlet adapter 188 is located at the inlet end of pipe 74 and outlet adapter 196 is located at the outlet end of pipe 74. Pipe 74 includes a bend between inlet adapter 188 and outlet adapter 196 to redirect the flow through pipe 74. For example, the bend may be an approximately 90-degree bend to redirect the flow from a generally vertical position at inlet adapter 188 to a generally horizontal position at outlet adapter 196. Nozzle 76 is configured to discharge material through outlet orifice 202, which is shown as an elongated orifice. In the example shown, nozzle 76 has a duckbill-shaped configuration.
[0151] Nozzle 76 is removably mounted to outlet adapter 196. Nozzle slot 204 extends through nozzle 76 near the inlet end of nozzle 76. Nozzle slot 204 is configured to align with an annular groove 208 on outlet adapter 196. Clamp 198 secures nozzle 76 to tube 74. Clamp 198 extends through nozzle slot 204 and enters an annular groove 208 to secure nozzle 76 to tube 74. Nozzle 76 can be rotated relative to tube 74 to change the orientation of outlet orifice 202. An annular groove 208 facilitates rotation of nozzle 76 to the desired orientation while nozzle 76 is secured to outlet adapter 196.
[0152] Nozzle 76 includes an annular protrusion defining a sealing groove 206. Nozzle seal 200 is disposed in sealing groove 206 and engages with the outer surface of outlet adapter 196. Nozzle seal 200 may be a resilient seal. Nozzle seal 200 may be an O-ring or U-cup, or other types of sealing rings. Nozzle seal 200 is disposed in sealing groove 206 such that nozzle seal 200 can be installed with and removed with nozzle 76. Nozzle seal 200 is located between the exterior of outlet adapter 196 and the interior of nozzle 76. Nozzle seal 200 is positioned outside the flow path through outlet adapter 196 and nozzle 76 to protect nozzle seal 200 and prevent material agglomeration on nozzle seal 200.
[0153] Figure 9 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the nozzle 74' connected to the outlet adapter 196'. The nozzle 38' is substantially similar to the nozzle 38, except that the outlet adapter 196' includes an annular sealing groove 210 within which the nozzle seal 200 is disposed. The sealing groove 210 is disposed between the outlet end of the outlet adapter 196 and the annular groove 208. The annular nozzle seal 200 can remain on the outlet adapter 196 during the installation and removal of the nozzle 76'.
[0154] Figure 10 This is an isometric view of a delivery pump 10 with a gooseneck nozzle 212. The gooseneck nozzle 212 includes an inlet adapter 188, a gooseneck tube 214, a bracket 216, and a support 218. The gooseneck nozzle 212 extends between an inlet end 220 and an outlet end 222. The gooseneck tube 214 includes a first bend 224 and a second bend 226.
[0155] A gooseneck nozzle 212 is mounted to an outlet connector 52 to receive pumped material passing through the outlet connector 52. The gooseneck nozzle 212 receives material from the outlet connector 52 at an inlet end 220. A first bend 224 redirects the material flow from generally vertically upward at the inlet adapter 188 to generally vertically downward. A second bend 226 redirects the flow from generally downward to generally upward to the outlet end 222. The first bend 224 can be approximately 180 degrees. The second bend 226 can also be approximately 180 degrees. A bracket 216 is connected to a gooseneck tube 214. The gooseneck tube 214 is configured such that a slurry dispensing tool can be connected to the outlet end 222 and is supported by the bracket 216 during filling of the slurry dispensing tool. A support 218 extends from the second bend 226 and is configured to support the gooseneck nozzle 212 on the ground.
[0156] A portion of the gooseneck nozzle 212 can be positioned above the barrel 36, such that part of the gooseneck nozzle 212 is within the space occupied by the barrel 36, while the other portion is positioned outside the space occupied by the barrel 36. The outlet end 222 of the gooseneck nozzle 212 is vertically positioned below the annular lip defining the opening of the barrel 36. The outlet end 222 is vertically positioned below the drive module 12. The outlet end 222 is vertically positioned below the mounting frame 48. The outlet end 222 is vertically positioned below the inlet end 220.
[0157] The gooseneck nozzle 212 can be repositioned relative to the outlet connector 52 when installed into the outlet connector 52. In the illustrated example, the gooseneck nozzle 212 is rotatable about axis BB when installed into the outlet connector 52. The flange 190 and pin 180 provide a keyed connection, such that alignment of the notch 192 with the pin 180 allows for installation and removal of the gooseneck nozzle 212 from the outlet connector 52, but misalignment between the notch 192 and the pin 180 prevents the gooseneck nozzle 212 from rising or leaving the outlet connector 52. Therefore, the keyed interface allows the gooseneck nozzle 212 to rotate about axis BB, but prevents the gooseneck nozzle 212 from moving away from the outlet connector 52 in the axial direction along axis BB when misaligned. The keyed interface prevents the gooseneck nozzle 212 from ejecting from the outlet connector 52 during pumping under pressure. The key interface between the gooseneck nozzle 212 and the outlet connector 52 facilitates tool-less installation of the gooseneck nozzle 212 on the outlet connector 52 and tool-less removal of the gooseneck nozzle 212 from the outlet connector 52.
[0158] Figure 11 This is an isometric view of the transfer pump 10, with the drive housing 42 removed and including the outlet connector 52'. The outlet connector 52' includes an inlet end 158 and an outlet end 160. The outlet connector 52' is connected to the outlet connector 52 (in... Figure 2A , 2BSimilar to (best visible in 3A), except that the outlet connector 52' guides the material along a flow axis extending between the inlet end 158 and the outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52'. Therefore, the flow through the outlet connector 52' remains approximately horizontal. In some examples, the outlet connector 52' may include something similar to pin 180 (in... Figure 7A and 7B The pins (best visible in the center) facilitate the installation and removal of components such as nozzle 38 (in the center). Figures 8A-8C The nozzle 38 (best visible in the middle) is connected to the outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52'. The nozzle 38 can be mounted to the outlet connector 52' and rotated about the flow axis to orient the nozzle 76 in different directions relative to the flow axis. The mud dispensing tool can be directly connected to the outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52' to fill the mud dispensing tool.
[0159] Figure 12A This is a 3D view of the transfer pump 10'. Figure 12B This is a partial exploded view of the transfer pump 10'. Figure 12C It is along Figure 12A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the delivery pump 10′ taken from line CC. This will be discussed together. Figures 12A-12C Transfer pump 10' and transfer pump 10 (in Figures 2A-3B (Best visible in the middle) is basically similar. The drive module 12', fluid module 14', nozzle 38 and bracket 40 of the delivery pump 10' are shown.
[0160] The drive module 12′ includes an electric motor 16, a drive housing 42′, a door 44′, a handle 46, a transmission 82′, a crank 84, and a drive frame 86′. The crank 84 includes an eccentric member 104, an arm 106, and a drive link 108. The drive link 108 includes a receiving slot 110. The drive chamber 112 of the drive frame 86′ is shown.
[0161] The diagram shows the piston 28, mounting frame 48', cylinder 50, outlet connector 52'', inlet check valve 126, traveling check valve 128, pump inlet 130, pump outlet 132, clamp 228, adapter 230, adapter lock 232, and guide bushing 234 of the fluid module 14'. The piston 28 includes an upper piston portion 140 and a lower piston portion 142. The upper piston portion 140 includes a head 144, a neck 146, an upper body 148, and a connecting hole 150. The lower piston portion 142 includes an upper end 152, a lower end 154, and a lower body 156. The clamp 228 includes a support ring 236 and a retaining ring 238. The inlet end 158 and outlet end 160 of the outlet connector 52'' are shown. The tube 74 and nozzle 76 of the nozzle 38 are shown.
[0162] The drive module 12' is removably mounted to the fluid module 14'. The drive module 12' includes the electronics of the delivery pump 10' and is configured not to contact the pumped material during operation. The fluid module 14' extends into the tank 36 and is configured to contact and pump the material during operation.
[0163] An electric motor 16 is disposed within a drive housing 42. A transmission 82' is disposed between the electric motor 16 and a crank 84. The electric motor 16 outputs rotational motion to the transmission 82', and the transmission 82' outputs rotational motion to the crank 84. The transmission 82' may include planetary gears, etc. In the illustrated example, the electric motor 16 and the transmission 82' are coaxially disposed on axis FF. The transmission 82' is configured to reduce the rotational speed received from the electric motor and increase the torque supplied to the crank 84. The rotor of the electric motor 16 rotates about axis FF. The eccentric wheel 104 of the crank 84 rotates coaxially with the electric motor 16 on axis FF. In the illustrated example, a portion of the electric motor 16, the transmission 82', and the eccentric wheel 104 of the crank 84 is coaxial with axis FF. Axis FF is orthogonal to pump axis AA.
[0164] Cylinder 50 extends into barrel 36 and can be at least partially immersed in the material in barrel 36. Piston 28 is at least partially disposed within cylinder 50 and extends through mounting frame 48'. Adapter 230 is at least partially disposed within mounting frame 48. Adapter 230 is disposed around upper piston portion 140. Adapter 230 may be in the form of a tube surrounding at least a portion of upper piston portion 140. Upper piston portion 140 extends fully through adapter 230 such that upper piston portion 140 extends above and below adapter 230 along pump axis AA. Guide bushing 234 is disposed within adapter 230 and engages with upper piston portion 140 of piston 28. Guide bushing 234 facilitates alignment of piston 28 on pump axis AA to maintain reciprocating motion of upper piston portion 140 coaxial with pump axis AA. As discussed in more detail below, guide bushing 234 further facilitates rotation of adapter 230 relative to piston 28 and about pump axis AA. Adapter lock 232 engages with adapter 230 to secure adapter 230, thereby securing the orientation of drive module 12′ relative to pump axis AA. Adapter lock 232 is located on mounting frame 48′ and is rotatable to cover or expose portions of adapter 230 to allow release of adapter 230 relative to mounting frame 48′ or to secure adapter 230 to mounting frame 48′. As shown, cylinder 50, traveling check valve 128, the lower sealing surface between cylinder 50 and cylinder 50, lower piston portion 142, upper piston portion 140, upper seal 136, and adapter 230 are coaxial with pump axis AA.
[0165] Drive module 12' is connected to fluid module 14' via a static connection interface and a dynamic connection interface. The dynamic interface is formed between piston 28 and crank 84. In the example shown, the dynamic interface extends from the head 144 of piston 28 into the receiving slot 110 of drive connecting rod 108. In the example shown, the static interface is formed between clamp 228 and drive frame 86.
[0166] A clamp 228 is disposed on the exterior of the adapter 230. The exterior of the adapter 230 includes threads configured to engage with threads formed on one or both of the support ring 236 and the retaining ring 238. The support ring 236 can be statically connected to the adapter 230. The retaining ring 238 is disposed on the adapter 230 between the support ring 236 and the mounting frame 48'. As the drive module 12' is mounted to the fluid module 14', the support ring 236 is disposed within the drive cavity 112, while the retaining ring 238 is disposed outside the drive cavity 112. A door 44' is movable to cover and open the front opening of the drive cavity 112. In the illustrated example, the door 44' is configured to pivot upwards and away from the front opening of the drive cavity 112' when moved from a closed position to an open position.
[0167] A bracket 240 is formed around the bottom opening of the drive chamber 112' and received in the gap between a support ring 236 and a retaining ring 238. The support ring 236 is configured to engage with the top surface of the bracket 240, and the retaining ring 238 is configured to engage with the bottom surface of the bracket 240. The retaining ring 238 is movable relative to the adapter 230 and along the pump axis AA to change the size of the gap formed between the support ring 236 and the retaining ring 238. For example, the retaining ring 238 can be rotatably threaded upward toward the support ring 236 to reduce the size of the gap and secure the bracket 240 between the support ring 236 and the retaining ring 238. Engagement of the clamp 228 secures the drive module 12' to the fluid module 14', while disengagement of the clamp 228 releases the drive module 12' from the fluid module 14' for separation. The interface between the clamp 228 and the drive frame 86' structurally connects the drive module 12' to the fluid module 14', such that the drive module 12' is supported by the fluid module 14'. Although the delivery pump 10' is shown as including the clamp 228 to form a static connection, it should be understood that other attachment mechanism options are also possible.
[0168] The entire drive module 12' can rotate relative to the fluid module 14' about axis AA. This allows the cantilevered drive housing 42 to point at any of the 360 degrees relative to the pump axis AA based on user preference. With the drive housing 42 extending in any desired direction, the drive module 12' can initially be mounted to the fluid module 14' and is capable of rotating relative to the fluid module 14' about axis AA, while the drive module 12' remains statically and dynamically connected to the fluid module 14'.
[0169] The adapter lock 232 is in the unlocked state to allow the adapter 230 to rotate about axis AA and relative to the fluid module 14'. The drive module 12' is statically connected to the adapter 230 such that the drive module 12' rotates together with the adapter 230. The adapter 230 rotates within the mounting frame 48, while the mounting frame 48 remains stationary and does not rotate. The interface between the head 144 and the receiving slot 110 allows the drive linkage 108 to rotate relative to the piston 28, while the piston 28 does not rotate about the pump axis AA. The adapter lock 232 can be in the locked state to secure the drive module 12' in a desired orientation relative to the pump axis AA. In this way, the static connection between the drive module 12' and the fluid module 14' can be rotated while structurally supporting the drive module 12' on the fluid module 14'.
[0170] The outlet connector 52″ is mounted to the mounting frame 48′. The nozzle 38 is connected to and supported by the outlet connector 52′′. In some examples, the outlet connector 52″ is rotatable about axis GG, allowing the nozzle 76 to move higher or lower according to user preference. The outlet connector 52″ is rotatable about axis GG, allowing slurry or other pumped material to exit the outlet connector 52″ not vertically, but horizontally or in another direction, to fill the slurry dispensing tool or otherwise transfer fluid at a position horizontal or below the GG axis. In this case, the nozzle 38 can be removed from the outlet connector 52″, allowing slurry or other material to exit from the delivery pump 10′ at the outlet of the outlet connector 52″. In some cases, the outlet connector 52″ can also be removed so that the pumped slurry flows out from the pump outlet 132. In some examples, another outlet connector (e.g., outlet connector 52″ in...) Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 3A (best visible in the middle) or export connector 52' ( Figure 11 It can be connected to the mounting frame 48' to receive pumped fluid from pump outlet 132. The outlet connector 52'' and nozzle 38 do not rotate about axis AA with the drive module 12' and adapter 230.
[0171] The connection between the drive module 12' and the fluid module 14' allows the drive module 12' to rotate relative to the fluid module 14', while the connection both fully supports the drive module 12' in an upright position and allows reciprocating motion to be transmitted from the drive module 12' to the fluid module 14'.
[0172] Figure 13A This is an exploded view of the transfer pump 10″. Figure 13B It is an enlarged, partially exploded isometric view showing the adapter 230′ raised away from the mounting frame 48′. Figure 13C This is an enlarged isometric view showing the adapter 230' located on the mounting frame 48' with the adapter lock 232 in an unsecured state. Figure 13D This is an enlarged isometric view of adapter 230' positioned on mounting frame 48' with adapter lock 232 in a fixed state. This will be discussed together. Figures 13A-13D .
[0173] The drive module 12″, fluid module 14′, and nozzle 38 of the delivery pump 10″ are shown. The drive housing 42′, door 44, handle 46, and drive frame 86″ of the drive module 12 are shown. The drive chamber 112 and mounting post 170 of the drive frame 86″ are shown. The piston 28, mounting frame 48′, cylinder 50, adapter 230′, and adapter lock 232 of the fluid module 14′ are shown. The adapter recess 242 in the mounting frame 48′ is shown. The adapter 230′ includes a receiver 58, an upper body 244, a lower body 246, an annular edge 248, and a hole 250. Each receiver 58 includes an arm 252, a boss 254, and a receiving opening 78. The adapter lock 232 includes a flap 256 and a fastener 258. The tube 74 and nozzle 76 of the nozzle 38 are shown.
[0174] The transfer pump 10″ is basically similar to the transfer pump 10 (in Figures 2A-3B (best visible in the middle) and delivery pump 10′ ( Figures 12A-12C The drive module 12″ is mounted to the fluid module 14′ via a static interface and a dynamic interface. The static interface is formed by a mounting post 170 extending into the receiving opening 78 of the receiver 58. The dynamic interface is between the piston 28 and the drive linkage 108 (in...). Figures 3A-4 The adapter 230' is formed between the drive module 12″ and the drive module 12″. Although the adapter 230' is shown as being connected to the drive module 12″, it should be understood that the adapter 230' facilitates the installation of various drive modules, such as the drive module 12″. Figures 2A-2C (Best visible in the middle).
[0175] Adapter 230' forms part of the static interface between drive module 12″ and fluid module 14'. The lower body 246 of adapter 230' is disposed in adapter recess 242 in mounting frame 48. The upper body 244 of adapter 230' is disposed outside adapter recess 242. In some examples, the diameter of the lower body 246 (reaching the outer circumferential edge of the lower body 246) is larger than the diameter of the upper body 244 (reaching the outer circumferential edge of the upper body 244). Adapter 230' defines an aperture 250 through which piston 28 extends and reciprocates during operation. Aperture 250 extends fully through adapter 230', through each of the upper body 244 and lower body 246, and is coaxially disposed on pump axis AA with piston 28. Adapter 230' is removably mounted to fluid module 14'. Adapter 230' can be removed from fluid module 14 and replaced with another adapter, for example, adapter 230 (in... Figure 12B and Figure 12C (best visible in the middle) to facilitate different forms of static interface between drive module 12″ and fluid module 14′.
[0176] An annular edge 248 is formed on the top of the lower body 246. A receiver 58 is connected to and protrudes from the upper body 244. In the illustrated example, the receiver 58 includes an arm 252 extending from the upper body 244 and terminating at a boss 254. A receiving opening 78 is formed at the distal end of the arm 252 through the boss 254. In the illustrated example, the arm 252 extends radially away from the pump axis AA and axially upward relative to the pump axis AA. The upper body 244 is disposed outside the adapter recess 242 and facilitates a static connection between the drive module 12″ and the fluid module 14′. In the illustrated example, a mounting post 170 extends from the drive frame 86′. The mounting post 170 is configured to extend into the receiver 58. It should be understood that the upper body 244 can facilitate other connection types, such as threads formed on the upper body 244 to facilitate a clamp 228. Figures 12A-12C Installed onto the upper main body 244.
[0177] Adapter lock 232 is located on mounting frame 48'. Flanges 256 are disposed on mounting frame 48' near adapter recess 242. Each flange 256 includes a fastener 258 for securing the flange 256 to mounting frame 48. In the illustrated example, the fastener 258 extends through the flange 256 and into mounting frame 48. The fastener 258 may be threaded onto mounting frame 48. The fastener 258 may move between a locked and unlocked state, for example, by rotating the fastener 258 relative to mounting frame 48'. When fastener 258 is in the locked state, adapter 230' is clamped within adapter recess 242 by flange 256, thereby preventing adapter 230' from rotating about axis AA and relative to mounting frame 48'. When fastener 258 is in the unlocked state, adapter 230' may rotate about axis AA and relative to mounting frame 48'.
[0178] The flap 256 can rotate between a fixed state and an unlocked state. The fastener 258 in the unlocked state allows the flap 256 to rotate, while the fastener 258 in the locked state secures the flap 256 to prevent rotation. Although the adapter lock 232 is shown as including three flaps 256, it should be understood that the adapter lock 232 can include more or fewer than three flaps 256.
[0179] Adapter 230' is shown as in Figure 13B The adapter recess 242 in the mounting frame 48' is raised above the adapter recess 242. The piston 28 extends through the hole 250 in the adapter 230'. The vane 256 is in an unsecured state and rotates away from the adapter recess 242. In the unsecured state, the vane 256 does not extend beyond the adapter recess 242, allowing the adapter 230' to be axially moved along the pump axis AA to insert into or remove from the adapter recess 242.
[0180] To install adapter 230', adapter 230' is moved downwards along pump axis AA. Figure 13C The position shown in the diagram ensures that the lower body 246 is at least partially disposed within the adapter recess 242. Because the adapter 230' is disposed within the adapter recess 242, the winglet 256 can rotate to... Figure 13DThe fixed position shown indicates that a portion of the flap 256 is positioned above the annular edge 248. The flap 256 positioned above the annular edge 248 prevents the adapter 230′ from being vertically lifted out of the adapter recess 242 along the pump axis AA. The user can rotate the adapter 230′ about the axis AA and relative to the mounting frame 48′. Rotating the adapter 230′ allows the drive module 12″ to be oriented in any desired orientation relative to the pump axis AA. The adapter 230′ is rotatable within the adapter recess 242, whether the drive module 12″ is mounted or not. The adapter 230′ can be secured in the desired orientation to prevent relative rotation via the adapter lock 232. With the adapter 230′ in the desired orientation, the fastener 258 is placed in a locked position to secure the adapter 230′ in the desired orientation. For example, the fastener 258 can be rotated into a locked position. In the locked state, fastener 258 applies a downward force to vane 256, and vane 256 applies a downward force to adapter 230' at the junction of vane 256 and annular edge 248. The downward force on adapter 230' clamps it within adapter recess 242 to prevent it from rotating relative to mounting frame 48' and about pump axis AA. Fastener 258 can be released to the unlocked state to release adapter 230' and allow it to rotate relative to mounting frame 48' and piston 28 and about pump axis AA. Adapter 230' can rotate about pump axis AA with vane 256 positioned on annular edge 248 and fastener 258 in the unlocked state.
[0181] Adapter 230' facilitates mounting of the drive module (e.g., drive module 12) in any desired orientation relative to the pump axis AA. Figures 2A-2C (Best visible in the center) or drive module 12″). The orientation can be changed according to the requirements of a specific work site to facilitate the placement of the delivery pump in any desired location on the work site. The orientation can be changed by releasing the fasteners and rotating the drive module around the pump axis AA. The modular nature of the delivery pump allows for efficient and economical placement of the delivery pump on the work site, thereby improving work efficiency.
[0182] Figure 14 This shows the flow from the delivery pump (e.g., delivery pump 10). Figures 2A-3B (best visible in the middle), delivery pump 10′ ( Figures 12A-12C ) and delivery pump 10″ ( Figure 13A Method 1000 for dispensing materials. In step 1002, the delivery pump is placed in learning mode. For example, a learning mode input on the user interface can be initiated by the user to place the delivery pump in learning mode. The learning mode input can be a button or an input type. The learning mode input can be related to the controller (e.g., control module 18) used to feed the delivery pump. Figure 1 Provides different inputs for pump commands.
[0183] In step 1004, the delivery pump is operated to dispense a given volume of material. For example, a user can actuate a button or other input to provide a pump command to the controller, causing the controller to operate as a motor, such as motor 16 (in... Figure 3B An electric motor (such as one that is best viewed in the image) provides power and causes the transfer pump to pump. When the transfer pump is in learning mode, the control module monitors the operation of the transfer pump, such as the duration of motor operation, the duration of input activation (e.g., the length of time a button is pressed), the number of motor revolutions (all or part), the number of motor pulses, the number of pump cycles, or other operating parameters. The controller tracks the operating parameters as the motor operates to pump material.
[0184] In step 1006, the learning mode is exited, and the controller stores the operating parameters associated with the dispensing volume as dispensing parameters associated with the dispensing volume. The volume allocated by the controller in learning mode is the dispensing volume. The dispensing parameters are stored in the delivery pump's memory, for example, memory 26. Figure 1 The data can be stored in the controller's memory and recalled during subsequent dispensing operations. For example, the delivery pump may include a sensor that senses the rotation of the motor. A count of motor rotations (including full rotation and / or partial rotation) is generated and stored in the controller's memory. In such an example, the count of motor rotations is an operating parameter. In some examples, the control module can exit the learning mode based on the user releasing a button or providing other input that gives pump commands. For example, the user can release a button or other input when the delivery pump dispenses the desired volume. The control module can then exit the learning mode based on the user releasing the button or other input and store the operating parameters as dispensing parameters.
[0185] In some examples, the control module is configured to aggregate multiple inputs into a single quantitative parameter. For example, after the user releases a button or other input, the control module can remain in learning mode. The user can initiate input multiple times in learning mode, and the control module stores each input in memory. For example, the user can initiate input three times, and the control module stores the operational parameters of each of the three inputs in memory. When exiting learning mode, the control module can aggregate the multiple operational parameters into a single quantitative parameter stored in memory. For example, each of the three inputs has an associated motor speed, where the motor speed is an operational parameter. The first, second, and third motor speeds associated with the three inputs in this example are added together to provide the overall motor speed stored in memory as a quantitative parameter.
[0186] Combining multiple inputs allows users to replenish the allocated volume to the desired fill volume. There are many different varieties and configurations of mud dispensing tools. Each user may want to fill their specific tool more or less, depending on that user's preference. For example, a user might activate an input to cause the delivery pump to pump. When the allocated volume approaches the required fill volume for the tool, the user can release the input to stop pumping. For example, a user might release the input when the mud dispensing tool is nearly full. The user can then activate the input one or more more times to cause the delivery pump to pump additional material and fill the allocated volume to the desired level. The user can exit learning mode after the allocated volume is filled. The controller can determine the fill parameters based on the sum of all dispensings performed in learning mode. Combining multiple dispensings to define the fill parameters helps the user fill the allocated volume to the final desired fill volume. In this way, the user avoids the risk of overfilling or underfilling in a single dispensing.
[0187] To exit learning mode, the user can initiate the learning mode input a second time or initiate another input associated with exiting learning mode. In some examples, the control module is configured to exit learning mode after a period of inactivity by the delivery pump. For example, the control module may be configured to exit learning mode based on 5 seconds, 10 seconds, or another time period of pump inactivity.
[0188] In step 1008, the controller causes the delivery pump to dispense a volume of material based on the dispensing command received by the controller. The control module retrieves dispensing parameters from memory (e.g., the motor speed that forms the dispensing parameters, and other parameter options). The control module controls the operation of the motor based on the retrieved dispensing parameters so that the delivery pump outputs a volume of material based on the dispensing command. For example, a user can actuate a button or other input to initiate dispensing output and cause the controller to operate the delivery pump in dispensing mode where the delivery pump outputs a volume of material. A single selection of an input providing a dispensing command causes the control module to operate the motor based on the dispensing parameters. During dispensing mode, the controller can control the operation of the motor so that the motor operates continuously for one cycle to cause the delivery pump to dispense a volume of material. For example, although a user can set the dispensing volume by driving the input five times for five different times to make the motor operate for a total of twelve seconds, the control module can make the motor operate continuously for twelve seconds to dispense that volume of material. When the dispensing button is pressed, the control module can operate the motor within a learned duration, motor speed, motor pulse count, or other parameters corresponding to the desired volume.
[0189] Method 1000 offers significant advantages. Users can set any dosage volume required for the tool or task. The control module monitors the motor's function while learning the dosage parameters and repeats the learned function in continuous output to provide the dosage volume. The delivery pump, with its dosage volume set based on the dosage command output, allows the user to perform a single action via an actuation input to make the delivery pump output the desired volume. The user does not need to repeatedly press buttons to initiate pumping. In this way, the user can access the delivery pump and attach tools (e.g., mud dispensing tools) to nozzles, such as nozzle 76 (in... Figures 8A-8C (The clearest example is the method 1000), which allows users to press a single button and receive the required amount of material (e.g., mud). This provides an efficient, rapid, and accurate dispensing of the desired volume.
[0190] Providing the required volume in a single dispensing operation also reduces downtime and allows users to complete tasks faster and more efficiently. Precise pumping of the dispensing volume prevents overfilling of the mud dispensing tool, which can cause irreparable damage to such tools. Accurate pumping saves time and costs. Users can set the required volume during several startups, allowing them to fully fill the mud dispensing tool while gradually adding the final volume. Gradually adding the final volume allows the mud dispensing tool to be filled as completely as possible without the risk of overfilling, allowing for the dispensing of more mud between fills, thus reducing downtime.
[0191] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and elements can be substituted with equivalents without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from its essential scope. Therefore, the invention is intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. A transfer pump configured to pump material from a drum having an opening into the drum, the transfer pump comprising: The fluid module includes: Mounting framework; A cylinder body that extends from the mounting frame along the pump axis in a first axial direction; A piston extending into the cylinder, the piston being configured to reciprocate along the pump axis to pump material from the barrel; and A bracket, which is connected to the mounting frame and configured to engage with the ground to support the delivery pump on the ground; A drive module, supported by the fluid module, includes: An electric motor is operatively connected to the piston via a dynamic interface; A power source, configured to provide power to the electric motor; and The driver frame is configured to engage with the mounting frame at a static interface; A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the electric motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the piston to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The learning mode is exited based on the release of the first input, and an operation mode other than the learning mode is entered based on the release of the first input. Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; Retrieve from the memory the dispensing parameters based on the dispensing instruction, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters so that the delivery pump outputs the dosage volume; The delivery pump is mountable to the barrel such that the wall of the barrel is radially positioned between the cylinder and the mounting bracket; and The motor and the power supply are spaced apart from the mounting frame in a second axial direction, which is opposite to the first axial direction.
2. The delivery pump of claim 1, wherein the mounting frame is configured to extend directly above the opening of the barrel, such that the cylinder is disposed inside the barrel, and the bracket is disposed outside the barrel.
3. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the pump reaction force generated during pumping is reacted by the bucket and the support.
4. The delivery pump according to claim 3, wherein the pump reaction force reacts from the piston to the drive frame through the dynamic interface, reacts from the drive frame to the mounting frame through the static interface, and reacts from the mounting frame to the surface through the bracket.
5. The delivery pump according to claim 3, further comprising: A bracket that engages with the support and is configured to engage with the annular lip of the opening of the barrel.
6. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the drive module further comprises: A conversion driver, connected to the piston, converts a rotary input into a linear output at the piston to cause the piston to reciprocate linearly along the pump axis; and A transmission device connected to the electric motor and the conversion driver to receive rotational output from the electric motor and provide rotational input to the conversion driver.
7. The delivery pump according to claim 6, wherein the transmission device comprises: The first stage is directly connected to the motor to receive the rotational output from the motor; and The second stage is directly connected to the conversion driver to provide the rotary input to the conversion driver.
8. The delivery pump according to claim 7, wherein: The electric motor rotates on its axis. The first stage rotates on a first gear axis that is vertically offset from the axis of the motor; and The second stage rotates on a second gear axis that is vertically offset from each of the motor axis and the first stage axis.
9. The delivery pump of claim 8, wherein the first stage and the second stage are disposed in a gear chamber defined between the drive frame and a drive plate connected to the drive frame, and wherein the motor is connected to the drive plate on one side of the gear chamber.
10. The delivery pump according to claim 9, wherein the first stage pinion of the first stage is supported by the drive frame and the drive plate, and wherein the second stage shaft of the second stage is supported by the drive frame and the drive plate.
11. The delivery pump according to claim 9, wherein the electric motor extends cantilevered from the drive plate.
12. The delivery pump of claim 1, wherein the bracket is connected to the mounting frame at a bracket interface location spaced a first radial distance from the pump axis, and wherein the power source is a battery installed in the drive module such that the battery is radially positioned further from the pump axis than the bracket interface location.
13. The delivery pump according to claim 1, wherein the power source comprises a battery.
14. The delivery pump of claim 13, wherein the battery is mounted to the drive module at a position radially outside the space occupied by the barrel.
15. The delivery pump of claim 13, wherein the battery can be mounted to the drive housing of the drive module via a sliding interface.
16. The delivery pump of claim 15, wherein the battery is configured to be mounted to the drive housing by displacing the battery in the first axial direction and radially toward the pump axis, and the battery is configured to be removed from the drive housing by displacing the battery in the second axial direction and radially away from the pump axis.
17. The delivery pump of claim 1, wherein the housing of the drive module is connected to the drive frame, and the motor is disposed within the housing, and wherein the housing includes a handle.
18. The delivery pump according to claim 1, wherein the motor is axially disposed between the mounting frame and the power source.
19. The delivery pump of claim 1, wherein the piston comprises an upper piston portion having a first diameter and a lower piston portion having a second diameter, wherein the upper piston portion is connected at the dynamic interface to the drive module to receive reciprocating mechanical input from the drive module, and wherein the lower piston portion is connected to the upper piston portion to reciprocate with the upper piston portion.
20. The delivery pump of claim 19, wherein a traveling check valve is mounted to the lower piston portion.
21. The delivery pump of claim 1, wherein the inlet of the fluid module is formed by the cylinder and the outlet of the fluid module is formed by the mounting frame.
22. The delivery pump of claim 1, wherein the piston extends through the mounting frame and into the cylinder.
23. A transfer pump configured to pump material from a drum, the transfer pump comprising: A fluid module configured to extend at least partially into the tank to contact the fluid within the tank; A drive module, which is structurally supported on the fluid module at a static interface, and wherein the drive module has an electric motor configured to provide power to the pumping of the fluid module at a dynamic interface; and A bracket connected to the fluid module and radially spaced from the pump axis of the fluid module, the bracket being configured to engage with a surface to support the delivery pump on the surface; and A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the electric motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the piston of the fluid module to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The user exits the learning mode based on the release of the first input from the user interface, and enters an operation mode other than the learning mode based on the release of the first input. When exiting the learning mode, the driver module receives allocation instructions from its user interface. Retrieve from the memory the dispensing parameters based on the dispensing instruction, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The electric motor is operated based on the dosage parameters to cause the piston to reciprocate in order to pump the material of the dosage volume.
24. The delivery pump of claim 23, wherein the pump reaction force generated during pumping is transmitted from the fluid module to the drive module through the dynamic interface, from the drive module to the fluid module through the static interface, and from the fluid module to the surface through the support.
25. The delivery pump of claim 23, wherein the drive module includes a battery removably mounted on the drive module and configured to power a motor of the drive module, and wherein the battery and the motor are vertically disposed above the fluid module.
26. The delivery pump of claim 25, wherein the battery is disposed on the drive module such that the battery is disposed outside the space occupied by the bucket, and the delivery pump is mounted to the bucket.
27. A transfer pump configured to pump material from an open drum, the transfer pump being powered by a battery, the transfer pump comprising: The fluid module includes: Mounting framework; A cylinder body that extends from the mounting frame along the pump axis in a first axial direction; A piston extending into the cylinder, the piston being configured to reciprocate along the pump axis to pump material from the barrel; and A bracket, which is connected to the mounting frame and configured to engage with the ground to support the delivery pump on the ground; A drive module, supported by the fluid module, includes a first side and a second side, and comprises: An electric motor is operatively connected to the piston; A battery mount, configured to power the electric motor, is located on a second side of the drive module; and The driver frame is configured to engage with the mounting frame at a static interface; A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the electric motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the piston to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The learning mode is exited based on the fact that the delivery pump is inactive within a predetermined time period; Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; The dispensing parameters based on the dispensing instructions are retrieved from the memory of the drive module, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters so that the delivery pump outputs the dosage volume; The delivery pump is mountable to the barrel such that a first side of the drive module faces the barrel and the barrel wall is radially disposed between the cylinder and the mounting bracket; and The battery mounting is positioned to keep the battery vertically above the opening of the bucket but not directly above the opening.
28. The delivery pump of claim 27, wherein the motor is positioned vertically above the annular lip of the barrel, but not directly above the barrel.
29. The delivery pump of claim 27, wherein the drive module further includes a user interface located on the second side of the drive module.
30. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 27-29, wherein the first side and the second side of the drive module face opposite directions relative to each other.
31. A transfer pump configured to pump material, the transfer pump comprising: A fluid module, the fluid module including a reciprocating pump configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump the material; A drive module is movably mounted to the fluid module via a static interface and a dynamic interface, wherein the drive module includes an electric motor operatively connected to the fluid module to power the reciprocating motion of the pump, and wherein one of the drive module and the fluid module structurally supports the other of the drive module and the fluid module at the static interface, and the drive module transmits reciprocating mechanical motion to the pump at the dynamic interface; and A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the electric motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the piston of the fluid module to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The user exits the learning mode based on the release of the first input from the user interface, and enters an operation mode other than the learning mode based on the release of the first input. When exiting the learning mode, the driver module receives allocation instructions from its user interface. Retrieve from the memory the dosage parameters based on the dosage instruction, wherein the dosage parameters are associated with the dosage volume; and The electric motor is operated based on the dosage parameters to cause the piston to reciprocate in order to pump the material of the dosage volume.
32. The delivery pump of claim 31, wherein the drive module is mountable to the fluid module in a plurality of orientations such that the drive housing of the drive module extends in a different radial direction relative to the pump axis in each of the plurality of orientations.
33. The delivery pump of claim 32, wherein the plurality of orientations includes two different orientations.
34. The delivery pump of claim 33, wherein the two said orientations are 180 degrees relative to each other about a vertical axis.
35. The delivery pump of claim 33, wherein the delivery pump is configured to pump material from a barrel having an annular lip defining an opening into the barrel, and the fluid module is configured to extend at least partially into the barrel to contact the fluid within the barrel.
36. The delivery pump according to claim 35, wherein the drive module includes a power module, the power module being directly positioned above the bucket in a first position of the two different positions, and the power module not being directly positioned above the bucket in a second position of the two different positions.
37. The delivery pump of claim 33, wherein the drive module can be installed on the fluid module only in the two different orientations.
38. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 31-37, wherein the drive module and the fluid module are detachable, such that the fluid module can be completely disconnected from the drive module.
39. The delivery pump of claim 38, wherein the drive module is configured to be detached from the fluid module to completely disconnect the drive module from the fluid module.
40. The delivery pump of claim 39, wherein the drive module is configured to be disassembled by radially displacing the drive module away from the fluid module to disengage from the locking element.
41. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 31 and 32, wherein the drive module is rotatable about a vertical axis relative to the fluid module while maintaining the static interface and the dynamic interface.
42. The delivery pump of claim 41, wherein, while maintaining the static interface and the dynamic interface, the drive module is capable of rotating 360 degrees relative to the fluid module about the vertical axis.
43. The delivery pump of claim 42, wherein the fluid module further comprises: Mounting framework; A cylinder body that extends from the mounting frame along the pump axis in a first axial direction; An adapter, which is supported by the mounting frame and disposed on the pump axis; The piston of the fluid module extends through the adapter and into the cylinder; and The driver module engages with the adapter to form the static interface.
44. The delivery pump according to claim 43, further comprising: A clamp is connected to the adapter and configured to engage with the drive module to form the static connection.
45. The delivery pump according to claim 43, further comprising: A receiver connected to the adapter, the receiver including a receiving opening, a post extending from the drive module extending into the receiving opening to form the static interface.
46. The delivery pump of claim 43, wherein the adapter is at least partially disposed within an adapter recess formed in the mounting frame, and wherein an adapter lock is configured to engage with the adapter, the adapter lock being actuated between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein during the locked state the adapter prevents the adapter from rotating about the pump axis, and during the unlocked state the adapter is rotatable about the pump axis.
47. The delivery pump of claim 46, wherein the adapter lock includes at least one flap movable between a first position and a second position, wherein when in the first position, the at least one flap is disposed over an annular edge of the adapter to prevent the adapter from axially displacing out of the adapter recess, and wherein when in the second position, the at least one flap is not disposed over the annular edge, such that the adapter can axially displacing out of the adapter recess.
48. The delivery pump according to claim 31, wherein: The fluid module also includes: Mounting framework; At least one receiver extends from the mounting frame; The driver module also includes: A driver mount having at least one post extending from the driver mount; The at least one pillar is configured to extend into the at least one receiver to form the static interface.
49. The delivery pump of claim 48, wherein the fluid module further comprises: The cylinder extends from the mounting frame along the pump axis in a first axial direction.
50. The delivery pump of claim 48, wherein when the drive module is positioned in a first mounting orientation, at least one column extends from a first end of the at least one receiver into the at least one receiver, and when the drive module is positioned in a second mounting orientation, the at least one column extends from a second end of the at least one receiver into the at least one receiver.
51. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 48-50, wherein: The at least one receiver includes a first receiver and a second receiver; The at least one column includes a first column and a second column; When the drive module is positioned in the first mounting location, the first post extends into the first receiver, and when the drive module is positioned in the second mounting location, the first post extends into the second receiver.
52. The delivery pump of claim 51, wherein a groove is formed on the top surface of the at least one receiver, wherein a first axial distance between the center of the receiving opening and the groove is the same as a second axial distance between the lower outer surface of the drive link of the drive module and the top surface of the drive link within a receiving slot of the drive link, the receiving slot being configured to receive the head of the piston of the fluid module.
53. The delivery pump of claim 31, wherein the fluid module further comprises: Mounting framework; The cylinder body extends from the mounting frame along the pump axis in a first axial direction; A first bracket mounting member extending from the mounting frame; A second bracket mounting component extending from the mounting frame; The bracket is capable of being connected to the mounting frame at each of the first bracket mount and the second bracket mount and configured to engage with a surface to support the delivery pump on the surface.
54. The delivery pump of claim 53, wherein the first bracket mount and the second bracket mount extend from opposite sides of the mounting frame, and wherein the pump outlet is formed in the mounting frame and circumferentially disposed between the first bracket mount and the second bracket mount.
55. The delivery pump of claim 53, wherein the first bracket mounting member comprises a first post having a first fastener opening and a second post having a second fastener opening.
56. The delivery pump of claim 31, wherein the drive housing of the drive module includes a handle formed at the top of the drive housing, and wherein the center of gravity of the delivery pump extends through the handle.
57. The delivery pump according to claim 31, further comprising: A crank, configured to receive a rotary output from the electric motor and provide reciprocating linear motion to the pump; The crank includes a drive link with a receiving slot, the drive link being configured to reciprocate on the pump axis; The pump has a head configured to be received in the receiving slot to form the dynamic interface between the head and the receiving slot.
58. The delivery pump of claim 31, wherein the fluid module does not include electronic components.
59. The delivery pump of claim 31, wherein the drive module is capable of radial displacement toward the fluid module from multiple directions to form the static interface and the dynamic interface.
60. A transfer pump configured to pump material from a drum having an annular lip defining an opening into the drum, the transfer pump comprising: A fluid module configured to extend at least partially into the tank to contact the fluid within the tank; A drive module is removably mounted to the fluid module via a static interface and a dynamic interface, wherein the drive module is structurally supported on the fluid module at the static interface, and wherein the drive module transmits reciprocating mechanical motion to the fluid module to cause pumping at the dynamic interface. A bracket connected to the fluid module and radially spaced from the pump axis of the fluid module, the bracket being configured to engage with a surface to support the delivery pump on the surface; and A control module, operatively connected to the motor of the drive module, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the motor in response to the allocation command to power the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving component of the fluid module to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The system exits the learning mode based on the release of the first input and enters an operation mode other than the learning mode based on the release of the first input. Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; The dispensing parameters based on the dispensing instructions are retrieved from the memory of the drive module, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters so that the delivery pump outputs the dosage volume; The drive module includes the electronic components of the delivery pump, and the fluid module does not include any electronic components, such that the electronic components can be disconnected from the fluid module by disconnecting the static interface and the dynamic interface.
61. The delivery pump of claim 60, wherein the static interface and the dynamic interface are configured to be simultaneously disconnected by radially displacing the drive module away from the pump axis.
62. A transfer pump configured to pump material, the transfer pump comprising: A fluid module, the fluid module including a fluid moving member configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump fluid; A drive module, the drive module including an electric motor operatively connected to the fluid moving member to provide power to the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving member; and A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving component to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The system exits the learning mode based on the release of the first input and enters an operation mode other than the learning mode based on the release of the first input. Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; Retrieve dosage parameters based on the dosage instruction from the memory of the drive module, wherein the dosage parameters are associated with the dosage volume; and The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters so that the delivery pump outputs the dosage volume.
63. The delivery pump according to claim 62, wherein the control module is configured to monitor the actual allocated operating parameters and store the monitored operating parameters as the dispensing parameters in the memory.
64. The delivery pump according to claim 63, wherein the operating parameter is the motor speed.
65. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the dispensing command is provided to the control module as a single button press.
66. The delivery pump according to claim 62, wherein the dispensing parameter is one of the number of rotations of the motor, the number of cycles of the fluid moving member, the operating duration of the motor, and the number of pulses of the motor.
67. The delivery pump according to claim 62, wherein the control module is further configured to: The motor is operated based on the assignment instructions from the user interface.
68. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the first input is a first button and the second input is a second button.
69. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the control module is configured to exit the learning mode based on the release of the second input.
70. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the control module is configured to remain in the learning mode when the second input is released.
71. The delivery pump of claim 70, wherein the control module is configured to exit the learning mode based on a second actuation of the first input and the delivery pump being inactive for a predetermined time period.
72. The delivery pump according to claim 62, wherein the operating parameters are one or more of the rotation of the electric motor, the number of cycles of the fluid moving member, the operating duration of the electric motor, and the number of pulses of the electric motor.
73. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the operating parameters are based on the duration of button being pressed.
74. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the operating parameters are based on the duration of continuous button presses.
75. The delivery pump according to claim 62, The operating parameters are based on a set of multiple operations of the motor.
76. The delivery pump of claim 75, wherein the control module is configured to operate the motor based on the dispensing parameters such that the delivery pump outputs the dispensing volume in a single dispensing.
77. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the control module is configured to aggregate multiple allocations in a learning mode to generate the dispensing parameters, and wherein the control module is configured to operate the motor to output the dispensing volume in a single allocation.
78. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the control module is configured to continuously operate the motor so that the delivery pump outputs the dispensing volume.
79. The delivery pump of claim 62, wherein the motor is disposed in the drive housing of the drive module, the control module is disposed in the drive housing, and the power source for the drive module is a battery configured to be installed in the drive housing.
80. The delivery pump of claim 79, wherein the user interface is formed on the drive housing.
81. A method for pumping using a transfer pump, comprising: The control module of the delivery pump enters the learning mode based on a learning mode command received from the user interface, the learning mode command being generated based on the actuation of a second input of the user interface; The control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the first input being different from the second input. The allocation instruction has a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated. In the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to induce material pumping while the first input is manually actuated, and stops the material pumping based on the release of the first input. While the control module operates the motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the fluid transfer component to pump the material, it monitors the operation of the drive module and stores the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The control module exits the learning mode based on the release of the first input, and enters an operation mode other than the learning mode based on the release of the first input. The control module of the delivery pump receives dispensing instructions from the user interface of the delivery pump. The control module retrieves, from the memory, dosage parameters based on the dosage instruction, wherein the dosage parameters are associated with the dosage volume; and The control module operates the motor based on the dispensing parameters to cause the delivery pump to output the dispensing volume.
82. The method of claim 81, wherein removing power from the motor by the control module based on the operating parameters of the delivery pump to achieve a dispensing parameter associated with the dispensing command comprises: The number of motor pulses associated with the motor is counted to generate a motor pulse count; The motor pulse count is compared with the quantity pulse count provided by the quantity parameters; as well as Power is removed from the motor based on the motor pulse count reaching the specified pulse count.
83. The method according to claim 81, further comprising: The control module receives learning mode instructions from the user interface. The control module enters the learning mode based on the learning mode command. When the delivery pump is in the learning mode, a first volume of material is dispensed via the delivery pump; The first operating parameters associated with the first volume are recorded in the memory of the delivery pump.
84. The method of claim 83, wherein recording the first operating parameter associated with the first volume in the memory of the delivery pump comprises: The first operating parameter is recorded in the memory as the dosage parameter.
85. The method of claim 83, further comprising: Actuation based on a first input to the user interface provides power to the electric motor to activate it; as well as The learning mode is exited by releasing the first input based on the user interface through the control module.
86. The method of claim 83, wherein recording the first operating parameter associated with the first volume in the memory of the delivery pump comprises: Record multiple allocation parameters associated with multiple allocations that occur in the learning mode; as well as The plurality of allocation parameters are compiled together to define the first operation parameter; as well as Record the first operation parameter as the dosage parameter.
87. The method of claim 86, wherein providing power to the motor of the delivery pump via the control module of the delivery pump to start the motor comprises: Power is continuously supplied to the motor until the actual operating parameters reach the specified quantity parameters.
88. A pumping method, comprising: A learning mode session is initiated by a second input to the user interface on the actuating delivery pump; During the learning mode session, the actuation of a first input to the user interface is initiated to receive a distribution instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input. The distribution instruction has a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated. While in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor simultaneously with the manual actuation of the first input to cause the delivery pump to power the motor of the delivery pump to operate the delivery pump to distribute fluid, and causes the motor to stop pumping material based on the release of the first input. The control module of the delivery pump operates the motor in response to the distribution command when in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving component to pump the material, while monitoring the volume of the distributed fluid and storing the operating parameters associated with the volume of the material distributed while pumping based on the distribution command when in the learning mode as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The actuation of the first input is stopped based on the actual volume of the fluid being distributed; The learning mode session ends upon release of the first input, and an operation mode other than the learning mode is entered upon release of the first input; and Receive dosage instructions from the user interface; The dispensing parameters based on the dispensing command are retrieved from the memory of the drive module of the delivery pump, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters so that the delivery pump outputs the dosage volume.
89. The method of claim 88, wherein actuating the dosage input comprises pressing a button once.
90. The method according to claim 88, wherein: Actuating the input during the learning mode includes pressing the button multiple times during the learning mode session to cause the delivery pump to repeatedly start and stop dispensing fluid into the tool, and The dispensing input that actuates the user interface causes the delivery pump to dispense the same volume as dispensed during the learning mode session by repeatedly starting and stopping the fluid dispensing during the learning mode session due to multiple button presses.
91. A transfer pump configured to pump material from a drum having an opening into the drum, the transfer pump comprising: Fluid module, the fluid module comprising: Mounting framework; A cylinder body that extends from the mounting frame along the pump axis in a first axial direction; A piston extending into the cylinder, the piston being configured to reciprocate along the pump axis to pump material from the barrel; and An outlet connector, supported by the mounting frame, has an inlet end and an outlet end; A drive module, supported by the fluid module, includes an electric motor operatively connected to the piston to power the reciprocating motion of the piston; A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the electric motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the piston to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The learning mode is exited based on the fact that the delivery pump is inactive within a predetermined time period; Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; The dispensing parameters based on the dispensing instructions are retrieved from the memory of the drive module, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters to cause the delivery pump to output the dosage volume; and A nozzle extends between a first end having a nozzle inlet and a second end having a nozzle outlet, wherein the nozzle is mounted to the outlet connector via the first end engaging with the outlet end of the outlet connector, and wherein the nozzle is repositionable relative to the outlet connector.
92. The delivery pump according to claim 91, wherein the nozzle inlet is vertically located below the drive module.
93. The delivery pump according to claim 91, wherein the nozzle outlet is vertically located above the drive module.
94. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the nozzle inlet is located above the fluid module.
95. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the outlet connector outputs the material horizontally, and the nozzle redirects this horizontal flow of material to vertical and then to horizontal.
96. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the nozzle is repositionable such that the nozzle outlet is located below the drive module in a first position and above the drive module in a second position.
97. The delivery pump according to any one of claims 91-96, wherein the nozzle is rotatable relative to the outlet connector.
98. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the outlet connector includes a curved flow path between the inlet end and the outlet end, such that the flow through the outlet connector is redirected from a generally horizontal flow at the inlet end to a generally vertical flow at the outlet end.
99. The delivery pump of claim 98, wherein the nozzle includes a first portion extending from the nozzle inlet along a vertical nozzle axis, wherein the nozzle includes a second portion extending from the first portion to the nozzle outlet, and wherein the second portion extends radially relative to the vertical nozzle axis.
100. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the nozzle further comprises: A flange protruding from the first end, the flange including a notch formed in the outer edge of the flange.
101. The delivery pump of claim 100, wherein the outlet connector further comprises: A pin protrudes from the outlet end, wherein the pin includes a pin body extending between the outlet end and the pin head; The pin is sized such that, when the nozzle is mounted to the outlet connector, the nozzle can move vertically away from the outlet end, wherein the pin head is aligned with the notch, and the pin prevents the nozzle from moving vertically away from the outlet end, wherein the outlet end is not aligned with the pin head.
102. The delivery pump of claim 101, wherein the outlet connector further comprises: A nozzle lock is configured to engage with the nozzle to prevent the nozzle from rotating relative to the outlet connector.
103. The delivery pump of claim 102, wherein the nozzle lock includes a shaft extending through the outlet connector and configured to engage with the outer surface of the first end disposed within the outlet end.
104. The delivery pump of claim 101, wherein the second end is spaced apart from the first end in the first axial direction, and wherein the nozzle is mounted to the outlet connector.
105. The delivery pump of claim 104, wherein the nozzle further comprises: A bracket extending from the body of the nozzle, the bracket being configured to support a mud dispensing tool on the nozzle, wherein the mud dispensing tool is connected to a second end to receive material through the nozzle outlet.
106. The delivery pump according to claim 91, wherein the nozzle further comprises: A duckbill-shaped nozzle, which is connected to the second end of the nozzle by a clamp.
107. The delivery pump of claim 106, wherein the second end includes an annular groove and the duckbill nozzle includes at least one slot, and wherein the clamp extends through the at least one slot and into the annular groove to secure the duckbill nozzle to the second end.
108. The delivery pump according to claim 107, wherein the annular seal is disposed between the outer surface of the second end and the inner surface of the duckbill nozzle.
109. The delivery pump of claim 108, wherein an annular sealing groove is formed on the inner surface of the duckbill nozzle, and wherein the annular seal is disposed within the annular sealing groove.
110. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the drive module extends from the mounting frame in a second axial direction, and wherein the nozzle extends from the outlet end in the second axial direction.
111. The delivery pump of claim 110, wherein the nozzle outlet is spaced apart from the mounting frame in the second axial direction, such that the motor is axially disposed between the nozzle outlet and the mounting frame.
112. The delivery pump of claim 111, wherein the battery of the drive module is axially disposed between the nozzle outlet and the mounting frame.
113. The delivery pump of claim 110, wherein the nozzle outlet is spaced apart from the mounting frame in the second axial direction, such that the drive module is axially disposed between the nozzle outlet and the mounting frame.
114. The delivery pump according to claim 110, wherein the nozzle outlet is rotatable such that when the nozzle is in a first position, the nozzle outlet is vertically positioned above the barrel, and when the nozzle is in a second position, the nozzle outlet is not positioned above the barrel.
115. The delivery pump of claim 91, wherein the nozzle is tool-free to be installed into and tool-free to be removed from the outlet connector.
116. A transfer pump configured to pump material, the transfer pump comprising: A fluid module, the fluid module including a fluid moving member configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump fluid; A drive module, the drive module including an electric motor operatively connected to the fluid moving member to provide power to the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving member; A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving component to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The system exits the learning mode based on the release of the first input and enters an operation mode other than the learning mode based on the release of the first input. Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; Retrieve dosage parameters based on the dosage instruction from the memory of the drive module, wherein the dosage parameters are associated with the dosage volume; and The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters to cause the delivery pump to output the dosage volume; and Nozzle, the nozzle comprising: A pipe extending between the inlet and outlet ends; An annular groove formed near the outlet end; A nozzle that can be installed to a pipe outlet, the nozzle comprising at least one slot extending therethrough; and A clamp is configured to extend through the at least one slot and into the annular groove to secure the nozzle to the outlet end.
117. The delivery pump of claim 116, wherein the nozzle further comprises: An annular flange that extends radially relative to the tube near the inlet end; and A notch that extends to the outer circumferential edge of the annular flange.
118. The delivery pump of claim 117, wherein the nozzle further comprises: An inlet adapter, the inlet adapter being mounted to the inlet end, wherein the annular flange extends from the inlet adapter; and An outlet adapter, wherein the outlet adapter is mounted to the outlet end, and wherein the annular groove is formed on the outlet adapter; The annular seal is disposed between the outer surface of the outlet adapter and the inner surface of the nozzle; The annular seal is disposed between the annular groove and the outlet of the nozzle.
119. A transfer pump configured to pump material, the transfer pump comprising: The fluid module includes: Mounting frame; and A pump having a fluid moving component configured to reciprocate along a pump axis to pump material; A drive module, which can be connected to the fluid module at both a dynamic interface and a static interface, includes: An electric motor, which is operatively connected to the fluid moving component via the dynamic interface; A power source, configured to provide power to the electric motor, wherein the power source is a battery; and A driver frame configured to engage with the mounting frame at the static interface; and A control module, operatively connected to the motor, is configured to: The control module enters learning mode based on receiving a learning mode instruction from the user interface, the learning mode instruction being generated based on the actuation of a second input from the user interface; Based on manual actuation of a first input to the user interface while in the learning mode, the control module receives an allocation instruction from the user interface, the first input being different from the second input, the allocation instruction having a duration characterizing how long the first input to the user interface is manually actuated, wherein, while in the learning mode, the control module activates the motor to cause the pumping of the material while the first input is manually actuated, and causes the motor to stop pumping the material based on the release of the first input; While operating the motor in response to the allocation command in the learning mode to power the reciprocating motion of the fluid moving component to pump the material, the operation of the drive module is monitored, and the operation parameters associated with the volume of the material allocated while pumping based on the allocation command in the learning mode are stored as a dispensing parameter in the memory of the control module, the volume forming the dispensing volume; The learning mode is exited based on the fact that the delivery pump is inactive within a predetermined time period; Receive allocation instructions from the user interface of the drive module; The dispensing parameters based on the dispensing instructions are retrieved from the memory of the drive module, wherein the dispensing parameters are associated with the dispensing volume; The motor is operated based on the dosage parameters so that the delivery pump outputs the dosage volume.
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