Motor speed control system, device and method

Abstract

A motor speed control device for a piston pump is provided. The piston can be adapted to produce multiple compressions, and the piston can have a compression path and a decompression path. Further, the piston barrel can include a proximal end, a distal end, and a piston length. The piston barrel can have a proximal threshold position and a distal threshold position. In embodiments, the device can include a proximal Hall effect sensor and a distal Hall effect sensor. The device can include a computer, wherein instructions direct the piston to decelerate at the distal threshold position during the compression path and to decelerate at the proximal threshold position during the decompression path, and / or wherein the computer executable instructions direct the piston to accelerate at the distal threshold position during the decompression path and to accelerate at the proximal threshold position during the compression path.

Description

[0001] Claiming priority

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 111,36, filed November 9, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a medical device. More specifically, this disclosure relates to systems, apparatus, and methods configured to control piston speed before and after compression. Background Technology

[0004] Since the dawn of civilization, pumps and pump technology have been used in a wide variety of applications. Around 2000 BC, the Egyptians used a very primitive system for pumps, no more complex than a bucket used to lift water from a well. Today, modern industry has advanced and uses pump technology in countless sophisticated ways.

[0005] In particular, modern pumps have wide applications in medical procedures and research. Medical professionals are often required to remove hazardous materials from patients' bodies quickly and efficiently. In such cases, mechanical devices such as pumps are necessary. Many pumps used in hospitals and research facilities offer the benefit of rapid and precise material removal. Furthermore, the return tubing of these devices safely and conveniently siphons unwanted materials into a waste collection system where they can be properly disposed of.

[0006] In particular, many modern pumps are piston pumps. Piston pumps are used to actuate fluid motion by using positive displacement technology and pressure differentials to reciprocate a piston. Typically, piston pumps are used in equipment that requires constant high pressure, such as water supply systems for agriculture.

[0007] Although piston pumps have found applications in many fields and industries, they also have some significant drawbacks. First, piston pumps consist of several mechanical parts susceptible to wear. Therefore, they may require frequent replacement or maintenance, increasing the cost of operating the machinery. Second, piston pumps are typically quite heavy because both the pump itself and the drive shaft are made of robust materials. Third, due to the increased weight and size of piston pumps, they require more power to operate more frequently, thus increasing operating costs.

[0008] Another significant drawback of piston pumps is that they move fluid in pulses. Therefore, piston pumps also use energy in pulses. Introducing a flywheel or counterbalance to the system can reduce the peak energy required to operate the piston pump. However, adding a flywheel or counterbalance increases manufacturing costs, operating costs, and the overall weight of the equipment.

[0009] Furthermore, because the piston in a piston pump moves in a pulsed manner, the pump as a whole is prone to violent vibration. While vibration pumps may be permissible for some applications, in many applications, vibration causes noise pollution, excessive damage to other parts of the equipment, and makes accurate measurements more difficult. For example, when a pump vibrates, it is disadvantageous for operators of precision medical equipment, as they may need to hold scalpels, siphons, or other tools in incredibly specific positions on a patient's body.

[0010] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide systems and methods that correct the deficiencies of modern piston pumps by reducing the power supply rating so that the power supply does not need to supply peak current. It would also be desirable to provide systems and methods that reduce the weight and cost of piston pumps by allowing them to operate without heavy flywheels or anti-balancing components.

[0011] What remains highly anticipated is the ability to overcome many of the shortcomings of modern piston pumps, especially those related to their use in precise operation. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention may include a motor speed control device for use with a piston pump, the piston pump including a piston held and trapped within the piston pump, the piston being configured to travel linearly within a cylinder. The piston may be adapted to produce multiple compressions, and the piston may have a compression path and a decompression path. Furthermore, the cylinder may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a piston length defined by the proximal and distal ends. The cylinder may have a proximal threshold position and a distal threshold position. In embodiments, the device further includes a proximal Hall effect sensor disposed on the outer surface of the proximal end of the cylinder and a distal Hall effect sensor disposed on the outer surface of the distal end of the cylinder. In a further embodiment, the apparatus includes a computer comprising one or more processors, one or more computer-readable memories and one or more computer-readable storage devices, and on-device program instructions stored in at least one of the one or more storage devices for execution by at least one of the one or more processors via at least one of the one or more memories, wherein the computer is in electronic communication with at least a proximal Hall effect sensor and a distal Hall effect sensor, wherein the memory includes computer-executable instructions configured to decrease the piston speed before each compression in a plurality of compressions and increase the piston speed after each compression in a plurality of compressions, wherein the computer-executable instructions instruct the piston to begin deceleration at a distal threshold position during the compression path and at a proximal threshold position during the decompression path, and / or wherein the computer-executable instructions instruct the piston to begin acceleration at a distal threshold position during the decompression path and at a proximal threshold position during the compression path. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The aspects of this disclosure are illustrated by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, and the principles of this disclosure are explained and illustrated together with the specification.

[0014] Figure 1 A block diagram of a distributed computer system that can implement one or more aspects of embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 A block diagram of an electronic device that can implement one or more aspects of embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0016] Figure 3 An embodiment of the pump motor is shown.

[0017] Figure 4 An embodiment of the pump motor is shown.

[0018] Figure 5 An embodiment of a piston cylinder having a reciprocating piston and an attached Hall effect sensor is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0019] For the purposes of this disclosure, singular terms should be interpreted to include their plural meaning unless otherwise expressly stated. Furthermore, the term "comprising" is not restrictive. Further, unless otherwise expressly stated, "or" is equivalent to "and / or". While the scope may be stated as preferred, embodiments operating outside the preferred scope may exist unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0020] It should be noted that the descriptions in this article are not intended as a broad overview, and therefore, concepts may be simplified for clarity and brevity.

[0021] All references to this application are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Any process described in this application may be performed in any order, and any step in the process may be omitted. A process may also be combined with other processes or steps of other processes.

[0022] Figure 1Components of an embodiment in which the invention can be implemented are shown. Not all components are necessary for implementing the invention, and changes in the arrangement and type of components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. As shown, system 100 includes one or more local area networks (“LANs”) / wide area networks (“WANs”) 112, one or more wireless networks 110, one or more wired or wireless client devices 106, mobile or other wireless client devices 102-105, servers 107-109, and may include or communicate with one or more data storage or databases. Different client devices of client devices 102-106 may include, for example, desktop computers, laptop computers, set-top boxes, tablets, cellular phones, smartphones, smart speakers, wearable devices (such as Apple Watches), etc. Servers 107-109 may include, for example, one or more application servers, content servers, search servers, etc. Figure 1 Application hosting server 113 is also shown.

[0023] Figure 2 A block diagram of an electronic device 200, according to embodiments of the present invention, is shown that can implement one or more aspects of apparatus, systems, and methods for increasing user engagement (“engine”) in mobile applications. Examples of the electronic device 200 may include servers (e.g., servers 107-109) and client devices (e.g., client devices 102-106). Generally, the electronic device 200 may include a processor / CPU 202, memory 230, power supply 206, and input / output (I / O) components / devices 240, such as a microphone, speaker, display, touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, keypad, microscope, GPS component, camera, heart rate sensor, light sensor, accelerometer, target biometric sensor, etc., operable to provide, for example, a graphical user interface or a text-based user interface.

[0024] Users can provide input via the touchscreen of electronic device 200. For example, the touchscreen can determine whether a user is providing input by detecting whether the user is touching the touchscreen with a part of their body (such as their finger). Electronic device 200 may also include a communication bus 204 connecting the aforementioned components of electronic device 200. Network interface 214 may include a receiver and transmitter (or transceiver) and one or more antennas for wireless communication.

[0025] Processor 202 may include one or more of any type of processing device, such as a central processing unit (CPU) and a graphics processing unit (GPU). Furthermore, for example, the processor may be central processing logic or other logic, which may include hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof to perform one or more functions or actions, or to cause one or more functions or actions from one or more other components. Moreover, depending on the desired application or need, the central processing logic or other logic may include, for example, a software-controlled microprocessor, discrete logic (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)), a programmable / programmable logic device, a memory device including instructions, or combinational logic embodied in hardware. Furthermore, the logic may also be entirely embodied in software.

[0026] Memory 230 (which may include random access memory (RAM) 212 and read-only memory (ROM) 232) may be enabled by one or more of any type of memory device, such as primary (directly accessible to the CPU) or secondary (indirectly accessible to the CPU) storage devices (e.g., flash memory, hard disk, optical disk, etc.). RAM may include operating system 221, data storage 224 which may include one or more databases, and applications 222 that may include programs and / or software aspects such as program 223. ROM 232 may also include the electronic device's basic input / output system (BIOS) 220.

[0027] The software aspect of program 223 is intended to broadly include or represent all programming, applications, algorithms, models, software, and other tools necessary for implementing or facilitating the methods and systems according to embodiments of the invention. Components may reside on a single computer or be distributed across multiple computers, servers, devices, or entities.

[0028] Power supply 206 includes one or more power supply components and facilitates the power supply and management of electronic equipment 200.

[0029] Input / output components (including input / output (I / O) interface 240) may include, for example, any interface used to facilitate communication between any component of electronic device 200, components of external devices (e.g., components of other devices in network or system 100), and end users. For example, such components may include a network interface card (NIC), which may be an integration of a receiver, transmitter, transceiver, and one or more input / output interfaces. For example, a NIC may facilitate wired or wireless communication with other devices in the network. In the case of wireless communication, an antenna may facilitate such communication. Furthermore, some of the input / output interfaces 240 and bus 204 may facilitate communication between components of electronic device 200, and in this example, processing may be readily performed by processor 202.

[0030] In the case where electronic device 200 is a server, it may include a computing device capable of transmitting or receiving signals, for example, via a wired or wireless network, or capable of processing or storing signals in memory, for example, as physical memory states. The server may be an application server that includes a configuration to provide one or more applications (e.g., aspects of an engine) to another device via a network. Furthermore, the application server may, for example, host a website that provides a user interface for managing example aspects of the engine.

[0031] Any computing device capable of sending, receiving, and processing data via wired and / or wireless networks can act as a server, in various ways that facilitate the implementation of the engine. Thus, devices used as servers can include devices such as dedicated rack-mounted servers, desktop computers, laptop computers, set-top boxes, integrated devices combining one or more of the aforementioned devices, etc.

[0032] Servers can vary widely in configuration and capabilities, but they typically include one or more central processing units, memory, large-capacity data storage, power supply, wired or wireless network interfaces, input / output interfaces, and an operating system (such as Windows Server, Mac OS X, Unix, Linux, FreeBSD, etc.).

[0033] A server may include, for example, a device configured or including a configuration that provides data or content to another device via one or more networks, such as in aspects of example devices, systems, and methods that facilitate engines. One or more servers may be used, for example, to host websites, such as www.microsoft.com. One or more servers may host a variety of sites, such as business sites, information sites, social networking sites, educational sites, wikis, financial sites, government sites, personal sites, etc.

[0034] The server can also provide various services, such as web services, third-party services, audio services, video services, email services, HTTP or HTTPS services, instant messaging (IM) services, short message service (SMS) services, multimedia messaging service (MMS) services, file transfer protocol (FTP) services, VoIP services, calendar services, telephone services, etc. All services can work in conjunction with example aspects of the example systems and methods used to embody the engine. Content can include, for example, text, images, audio, and video.

[0035] In examples of devices, systems, and methods embodying the engine, client devices may include, for example, any computing device capable of sending and receiving data via wired and / or wireless networks. Such client devices may include desktop computers and portable devices such as cellular phones, smartphones, display pagers, radio frequency (RF) devices, infrared (IR) devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld computers, GPS-enabled devices, tablet computers, sensor-equipped devices, laptop computers, set-top boxes, wearable computers (such as Apple Watches and accessories), and integrated devices combining one or more of the aforementioned devices.

[0036] Client devices (such as client devices 102-106) that can be used to embody the engine in example apparatuses, systems, and methods can vary widely in terms of capabilities and features. For example, a cellular phone, smartphone, or tablet computer may have a numeric keypad and a monochrome liquid crystal display (LCD) on which only text can be displayed. In another example, a network-enabled client device may have a physical or virtual keyboard, data storage (such as flash memory or an SD card), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a breathing sensor, a body motion sensor, a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, an ambient light sensor, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, a compass, a barometer, a fingerprint sensor, a facial recognition sensor using a camera, a pulse sensor, a heart rate variability (HRV) sensor, a beats per minute (BPM) heart rate sensor, a microphone (sound sensor), a speaker, GPS or other location awareness capabilities, and a 2D or 3D touch-sensitive color screen on which text and graphics can be displayed. In some embodiments, multiple client devices may be used in combination to collect data. For example, a smartphone may be used to collect motion data via an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope, and a smartwatch (such as an Apple Watch) may be used to collect heart rate data. Multiple client devices (such as smartphones and smartwatches) can be communicatively coupled.

[0037] Client devices (such as client devices 102-106) can be used, for example, in the sample devices, systems, and methods implementing the engine, and can run various operating systems, including personal computer operating systems (such as Windows, iOS, or Linux) and mobile operating systems (such as iOS, Android, Windows Mobile, etc.). A client device can be used to run one or more applications configured to send or receive data from another computing device. Client applications can provide and receive text content, multimedia information, etc. Client applications can perform actions such as browsing web pages, using web search engines, interacting with various applications stored on a smartphone, sending and receiving messages via email, SMS, or MMS, playing games (such as Fantasy Sports League), receiving advertisements, watching locally stored or streaming videos, or participating in social networks.

[0038] In examples of apparatus, systems, and methods for implementing the engine, one or more networks (such as network 110 or 112) may, for example, couple server and client devices to other computing devices, including coupling to client devices via wireless networks. Networks can be made capable of using any form of computer-readable medium to transmit information from one electronic device to another. The computer-readable medium can be non-volatile. Networks may include the Internet, in addition to Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), direct connections such as via Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, other forms of computer-readable media (computer-readable storage), or any combination thereof. In groups of interconnected LANs that include those based on different architectures and protocols, routers act as links between LANs, enabling data to be sent from one LAN to another.

[0039] Communication links within a LAN may include twisted-pair or coaxial cables, while communication links between networks may utilize analog telephone lines, electrical cables, optical lines, all or part of dedicated digital lines including T1, T2, T3, and T4, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), wireless links including satellite links, fiber optic links, or other communication links known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, remote computers and other related electronic equipment may be remotely connected to the LAN or WAN via modems and telephone links.

[0040] In example devices, systems, and methods for implementing the engine, a wireless network (such as wireless network 110) can couple devices to the network. The wireless network can be an ad-hoc network, a mesh network, a wireless LAN (WLAN) network, a cellular network, etc.

[0041] Wireless networks can further include autonomous systems of terminals, gateways, routers, etc., connected via wireless radio links. These connectors can be configured to move freely and randomly and organize themselves arbitrarily, allowing the topology of the wireless network to change rapidly. Wireless networks can also employ multiple access technologies, including second-generation (2G), third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio access for cellular systems, WLAN, and wireless router (WR) meshes. Access technologies (such as 2G, 2.5G, 3G, 4G, and future access networks) enable wide-area coverage for client devices (such as client devices with varying mobility). For example, wireless networks can achieve radio connectivity through radio network access technologies such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE), Advanced LTE, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Bluetooth, 802.11b / g / n, etc. Wireless networks can include virtually any wireless communication mechanism through which information can be transmitted between client devices and other computing devices, networks, etc.

[0042] The Internet Protocol (IP) is used to transmit data communication packets over participating digital communication networks and can include protocols such as TCP / IP, UDP, DECnet, NetBEUI, IPX, AppleTalk, etc. Versions of the Internet Protocol include IPv4 and IPv6. The Internet includes Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), wireless networks, and long-distance public networks that allow packets to communicate between LANs. Packets can be transmitted between nodes in the network to stations, each with a unique local network address. Data communication packets can be sent from a user station over the Internet via access nodes connected to the Internet. If the destination station's address is included in the packet header, the packet can be forwarded by network nodes to any destination station connected to the network. Each packet communicating on the Internet can be routed via paths determined by gateways and servers, which switch packets based on the destination address and the availability of network paths connecting to the destination station.

[0043] The packet header may include, for example, source port (16 bits), destination port (16 bits), sequence number (32 bits), acknowledgment number (32 bits), data offset (4 bits), reserved (6 bits), checksum (16 bits), urgent pointer (16 bits), options (variable number of bits in multiples of 8 bits), and padding (which may consist of all zeros and include multiple bits to make the header end on a 32-bit boundary). The number of bits for each of these can also be higher or lower.

[0044] As may be used in example devices, systems, and methods for implementing an engine, a "content delivery network" (CDN) generally refers to a distributed computing system that includes a collection of autonomous computers linked by one or more networks, and software, systems, protocols, and technologies designed to facilitate various services, such as the storage, caching, or transmission of content, streaming media, and applications on behalf of content providers. Such services may utilize supporting technologies, including but not limited to "cloud computing," distributed storage, DNS request processing, provisioning, data monitoring and reporting, content targeting, personalization, and business intelligence. A CDN can also enable entities to operate and / or manage the website infrastructure of third parties, wholly or partially, on their behalf.

[0045] Peer-to-peer (P2P) computer networks rely primarily on the computing power and bandwidth of the participants in the network, rather than centralizing them in a given set of dedicated servers. P2P networks are typically used to connect nodes via a large number of self-organizing connections. Pure peer-to-peer networks do not have the concept of clients or servers, but only peer nodes that are both "clients" and "servers" to other nodes on the network.

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention include apparatus, systems, and methods for implementing an engine. Embodiments of the present invention can be implemented on one or more client devices 102-106 communicatively coupled to servers including servers 107-109. Furthermore, client devices 102-106 can be communicatively coupled to each other (wirelessly or wired). Specifically, the software aspects of the engine can be implemented in program 223. Program 223 can be implemented on one or more client devices 102-106, one or more servers 107-109 and 113, or a combination of one or more client devices 102-106 and one or more servers 107-109 and 113.

[0047] The invention described in this disclosure can utilize any of the following piston pumps, including but not limited to lift piston pumps, force piston pumps, axial piston pumps, and radial piston pumps.

[0048] In some embodiments, the pump cartridge may include a linear piston pump. The piston can be driven by a crank via linear motion generated by a transmission. The piston may include an inlet valve that allows fluid to enter the cylinder when the piston retracts. During compression, the inlet valve may close, and a check valve in the cylinder head may open once the pressure in the cylinder exceeds the pressure in the outlet pipe.

[0049] In one embodiment, the piston pump is made of a rust-resistant material. However, in many embodiments, the piston pump may be made of cast iron, plastic, steel, stainless steel, stainless steel alloys, aluminum, ceramic, or other materials. In another embodiment, the piston, piston pump, and / or other components of the present invention may be 3D printed.

[0050] The piston pump can be a single-acting pump. In another embodiment, the piston pump is a double-acting pump. In a double-acting pump embodiment, the piston pump may include two inlets and two outlets. The pump can generate pressures up to 12,000 psi at a flow rate of 200 ml / min. However, the pump can generate any suitable pressure and / or flow rate value. Moreover, there are pump embodiments in which the piston pump includes more than two inlets and / or more than two outlets.

[0051] In one embodiment, the piston pump comprises a single piston located within a piston cylinder. However, alternative embodiments exist where the pump is a tandem pump, a triple pump, or a pump having more than three pistons. In some multi-piston embodiments, each piston may have a dedicated control device. However, in other multi-piston embodiments, the same control device controls each piston. For the purposes of this disclosure, the control device may be or may include a computer, sensor, detector, or other component.

[0052] In one embodiment, the motor speed control device includes a piston pump, wherein the piston pump includes a piston. In an alternative embodiment, the piston pump houses more than one piston. The piston pump may include multiple components, including but not limited to an inlet, a port plate, an outlet, a rotating cylinder, a piston, and a non-rotating swashplate.

[0053] See Figure 3 In one embodiment, the piston pump is connected to a pump motor, with a drive shaft positioned between the pump motor and the piston pump. The drive shaft transmits force from the drive shaft to the piston. Compressive force can be transmitted to the piston shaft via the drive shaft when they are in direct contact. Tensile force can be transmitted to the piston shaft via the coupling of the comb-like pins to the drive shaft.

[0054] The cylinder barrel can have a diameter of approximately 9 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the compression stroke is approximately 4 mm. The volume can be approximately 0.25 cm³. 3 However, the cylinder diameter, compression stroke length, and volume can be any suitable measurement. According to various embodiments, the pump can be specifically configured to provide the flow rate and pressure necessary to achieve clinical outcomes. However, in alternative embodiments, the pump motor includes a pump motor gear connected via a belt to the piston pump gear. Alternatively, the piston pump gear and pump motor gear can be connected to a chain, one or more gears, a pulley system, or other suitable components. However, further embodiments exist in which multiple gears are arranged between the pump motor and the piston pump.

[0055] See Figure 4 In this embodiment, a gear ratio exists between the gears associated with the pump motor and the gears associated with the piston pump. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gear ratio is 72:17. However, there are embodiments with gear ratios greater than or less than 72:17. An alternative embodiment exists where the pump motor is directly connected to the piston pump. In this alternative embodiment, no gear ratio exists because the pump motor can act as a direct drive motor.

[0056] The gear ratio can be determined and configured to match the pump associated with a medical device (or other device) such that the gear ratio can induce a desired speed in the piston / pump. Thus, the gear ratio induces a desired piston speed, which can be measured in revolutions per minute (“TPM”). However, in embodiments, the gear ratio is configured such that the pump can operate effectively at any speed setting within a predetermined speed range (e.g., 1-10).

[0057] The device may include multiple shafts or gears arranged between the pump motor and the piston pump. In these embodiments, the multiple shafts or gears are arranged in such a way that the speed of the piston pump is controlled. In embodiments, the internal components of the pump motor are easily evaluated by the user, allowing the user to easily change gears. In further embodiments, the present invention includes a gearbox, which may be a manual gearbox or an automatic gearbox. In embodiments, the manual gearbox is easily operated by the user by means of a lever or other control method.

[0058] In one embodiment, a piston pump is connected to a starting piston pump, causing the starting piston pump to start the piston pump. The starting of the handheld unit, including the pump cartridge, tubing, and other components, can be automated. The pump motor current can be monitored while the motor is running. When fluid reaches an orifice in the handheld unit, the pump motor current can be configured to rise, thereby indicating that the system has been started.

[0059] However, in alternative embodiments, the piston pump is started manually. Further embodiments exist where the device includes a start-up sensor configured to detect whether the pump has been started. Embodiments also exist where the start-up sensor can generate a signal capable of disabling the pump motor or the pump itself based on whether the pump has been started.

[0060] In this embodiment, the motor speed control device includes a computer. The computer may be associated with a pump motor, which is a brushless DC motor whose speed is regulated by the computer. The computer can measure the motor speed, compare it to a desired speed, and output one or more control signals, such as two control signals (e.g., a pulse width modulation signal and a logic braking signal). The pulse width modulation signal may be proportional to the voltage applied to the motor. The braking signal can actively stop the motor and hold it in a stopped position. One or more signals may be fed to a commutation controller integrated circuit or any other suitable controller that can determine which voltage to apply to each of the three phases of the brushless DC motor and with what polarity. This can be determined by monitoring a Hall effect sensor inside the motor, which can indicate the relative position between the magnets and windings on the motor shaft. However, the Hall effect sensor can function according to any known Hall effect sensor technology.

[0061] For the purposes of this disclosure, the computer may be a microcomputer, a standard desktop computer, or any other computer. In many embodiments, the computer may be small enough to be housed within an equipment rack. In another embodiment, the computer may reside within a power supply chassis or pump chassis. In other embodiments, the computer communicates electronically with the pump motor. However, the computer may also communicate with any electrical components of the piston pump or apparatus. Further embodiments exist in which the computer first communicates electronically with a controller or drive (e.g., before communicating with the piston pump or pump motor).

[0062] In this embodiment, the computer includes at least a memory and a processor. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the memory may include computer-executable instructions (e.g., stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices). In many embodiments, these instructions may be executed by the computer (e.g., a processor). In this embodiment, the computer is connected to a monitor, allowing a user to view the monitor while making adjustments or selecting various settings.

[0063] Furthermore, in a further embodiment, the motor speed control device includes one or more peripheral attachments, such as a computer mouse, trackpad, keyboard, or other controller, which enable the user to make speed-related selections for the motor. In an alternative embodiment, the adjustment device (such as a button, switch, knob, or other similar selection tool) is located externally to the motor control device. In a further alternative embodiment, a touchscreen, acting as both a monitor and a selection point, is arranged externally to the motor control device.

[0064] In this embodiment, the user can control the motor speed via software. For example, the user can adjust the speed control settings (e.g., from 1 to 10) by interacting with a graphical user interface displayed on a computer monitor or a digital or analog user interface arranged on the device itself. Each speed setting can cause the motor to increase or decrease the speed of the piston, where setting 1 is the lowest speed and setting 10 is the highest speed.

[0065] A computer or monitor displays sub-screens and / or graphics to the user, enabling the user to change the motor speed without directly interacting with the source code or firmware. In some embodiments, a sub-screen (e.g., animated graphics) may include a series of pictures illustrating motion or action. Sub-screens can be used to prompt or guide the user to perform specific actions without requiring text. For example, if a pump cartridge needs to be inserted into a console, a first picture might show a hand holding the pump cartridge near the front of the console. A second picture might show the pump cartridge partially held in the console, and a third picture might show the hand holding the pump cartridge fully inserted into the console. The pictures can then cycle through 1-3, pausing on each for a period of time (e.g., one second) until the console senses that the pump cartridge has been inserted, at which point it will proceed to the next state.

[0066] However, alternative embodiments exist in which the computer enables the user to control the motor speed in ways that are not simply simple. For example, in alternative embodiments, the computer is configured to allow the user to set timers for when the pump motor is powered on and / or powered off, to change the intensity of the pump motor, and / or to adjust other characteristics of the pump motor. In some embodiments, the user can set the pump speed (e.g., speed 1-10) and determine whether the pump is running via a foot pedal. The speed can be selected via up / down buttons on the display or any other suitable button in combination with the foot pedal. An alarm (such as a bell) can sound at any suitable interval (such as a one-minute interval), so the user knows how long the pump has been running without having to browse the screen.

[0067] In this embodiment, each piston is assembled within a piston cylinder, and each piston cylinder has a proximal end and a distal end. In this embodiment, one or more piston cylinders are positioned near one or more Hall effect sensors. The one or more Hall effect sensors can be used to determine the speed, position, and / or duration of the stroke of the piston as it travels within the piston cylinder. The one or more Hall effect sensors can communicate electronically with a computer.

[0068] In some embodiments, the computer interprets raw data provided by Hall effect sensors to determine the piston's speed and position. In alternative embodiments, a separate module or microcomputer exists between one or more Hall sensors and the computer. In such embodiments, the separate module or microcomputer can interpret the raw data provided by the Hall effect sensors and convert it into a form that can be easily read by the computer and / or the computer's processor.

[0069] In one embodiment, one or more Hall effect sensors are configured such that the computer receives a signal from one or more Hall effect sensors when the piston is near the top dead center (“TDC”) and / or in close proximity to the bottom dead center. However, in an alternative embodiment, the Hall effect sensors may be configured to generate a signal when the piston is near any position.

[0070] Indexing sensors can be used to determine when a piston is at maximum compression. The sensor used can be an optical sensor, such as an interrupt sensor. An interrupt sensor detects a small hole (e.g., 4 mm) in a large pulley of the transmission. The hole can be specifically sized such that the piston's position can be located using a comb-like structure connecting the piston shaft to the transmission. The sensor can be mounted to the transmission such that light passes through the hole in the pulley and reaches a photodetector when aligned with the hole. The pulley can be keyed to the shaft so that the hole aligns with the sensor when the piston is at maximum compression (e.g., top dead center) or any desired position.

[0071] The indexing sensor can be configured to indicate the piston's position in order to lock or unlock the unit to the piston (e.g., lock the piston in place). A gate and / or comb can be components of the assembly configured to lock and unlock the piston. For example, the locking and unlocking of the piston can be configured to prevent accidents. Therefore, if the system determines, for example, via the indexing sensor, that the piston is misaligned and locked, it will prevent the unit from operating.

[0072] To determine the location of the top dead center, the computer can either power the pump motor at 60 TPM or slow it down to 60 TPM and monitor the indexing position. However, the computer can instruct the pump motor to operate at any suitable rate. Once detected, the computer can apply the brakes. The detection time can be determined by the speed of the photodetector. In some embodiments, the speed of the pump used for indexing can be configured to overcome delays in detection, limit possible kinetic energy absorbed when braking the motor, and be fast enough that the user does not experience unsatisfactory delays.

[0073] In some embodiments, the processor determines the piston speed by evaluating the time when the piston triggers the Hall effect sensor and comparing these times with a predetermined distance between the distal and proximal ends of the piston cylinder. The computer can determine the pump speed by measuring the time between indexing signals. The computer can determine an approximate angular position (e.g., which can be converted to a linear position) by determining the number of pulses from one of the Hall effect sensors inside the motor after the indexing sensor is triggered. As a non-limiting example, there may be twenty pulses from the motor's Hall effect sensor for each complete piston cycle. In embodiments, each of these data points, including but not limited to the distance between the proximal and distal ends of the piston cylinder, the time when the Hall effect sensor is triggered at the distal end of the piston cylinder, the time when the Hall effect sensor is triggered at the proximal end of the piston cylinder, and the calculated piston speed, is populated and stored in a spreadsheet, database, or other data structure on the computer's memory or a computer-readable storage device.

[0074] While in some embodiments the piston cylinder has separate Hall effect sensors at both the proximal and distal ends, it is possible to include only a single Hall effect sensor. In such embodiments, the piston cylinder has only one Hall effect sensor, and the processor calculates the speed similar to that in the previously described embodiments. However, the processor can be programmed to calculate the piston speed by comparing the time when the single Hall effect sensor is triggered with the distance the piston has traveled, wherein, for the purposes of this embodiment, the piston travels two lengths of the piston cylinder before triggering the single Hall effect sensor again.

[0075] While Hall effect sensors can be used for the applications described above, one or more different sensors can be used, including but not limited to proximity sensors, pressure sensors, and optical sensors.

[0076] In one embodiment, the memory includes computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the pump motor to decelerate before peak compression and accelerate after peak compression. In some embodiments, the deceleration and acceleration of the pump motor by the processor are performed by a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller. PWM can be used to communicate information to the motor driver, thereby slowing and accelerating the piston. The computer can calculate the duty cycle of the PWM by setting the speed, actual speed, and angular position, or any other suitable variable. The computer can determine the approximate angular position by counting the number of pulses from one of the Hall effect sensors inside the motor after detecting the index sensor. For example, there can be up to 20 Hall effect pulses and one indexing pulse per complete cycle (revolution).

[0077] In another embodiment, the pump motor is accelerated and decelerated by a different type of motor speed controller. However, in alternative embodiments, the processor changes the pump motor speed by different methods, such as by changing the gear ratio, using an inducing magnet to delay the movement of the pump motor or piston, or other methods known in the art.

[0078] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the heat released by the motor and the size of the motor are reduced because the required peak power is reduced. Additionally, in some embodiments, pumping efficiency is increased because the longer compression cycle gives the check valve more time to open.

[0079] In embodiments, the user can control the rate of deceleration and / or acceleration of one or more pistons. For example, in some embodiments, the processor can instruct the pump motor to decelerate when the piston is near one end of the piston barrel and has traveled 90% of the length of the piston barrel. After a division is detected, for example, at a maximum of 18 degrees after the TDC, the motor can begin to accelerate upon detection of the first motor Hall pulse. After a division is detected, motor deceleration can begin at the fifteenth pulse at a maximum value of 270 degrees after the TDC. However, there are embodiments where the piston begins to accelerate and decelerate at different distances along the piston. The processor can also utilize the weight of the piston to determine the acceleration and deceleration of the piston.

[0080] In this embodiment, the position at which the piston begins to accelerate or decelerate is a function of the piston speed. For example, in such an embodiment, if the piston is traveling at 9 meters per second, it can be decelerated when it has traveled 85% of the length of the piston cylinder. However, in such an embodiment, if the piston is traveling at 10 meters per second, it can be decelerated when it has traveled 80% of the length of the piston cylinder. In this embodiment, the memory includes computer-executable instructions that include functionality for determining, in part, where the piston should accelerate or decelerate based on its speed. For the purposes of the foregoing embodiments, the piston speed can be the average speed of the piston, the speed of the piston measured at the center of the piston, or the speed of the piston measured at different positions or in different ways.

[0081] In these embodiments, the operator selects the position where the piston accelerates or decelerates. In these embodiments, the operator may make these selections using a peripheral selection device connected to a computer or by using buttons or switches that may be located on the motor speed control device. Alternatively, there are embodiments where the positions for piston acceleration and deceleration are fixed and therefore non-adjustable.

[0082] In embodiments, the computer or memory may include preset modes that instruct when the piston accelerates or decelerates. In these embodiments, the acceleration and deceleration start points and the intensity of acceleration and deceleration are tailored to a specific application. The motor's duty cycle power varies between 75% and 120% of the desired duty cycle to maintain the desired speed. This allows the current drawn from the power source to be more continuous, rather than peaking during compression. As a non-limiting example, in embodiments, the computer may have two modes. A first mode may be adjusted for motors with less than three horsepower, and a second mode may be adjusted for motors with more than three horsepower. In some embodiments, the second mode may accelerate and decelerate the piston more drastically before and after peak compression. However, there are also possible programmable modes.

[0083] In alternative embodiments, the piston and / or piston cylinder may be fitted with a spring, communicate with a spring, or be disposed on another component designed to act as a buffer. In embodiments, physical components are placed within the piston cylinder, replace the piston, communicate with the piston, or are trapped within the piston to mitigate the rebound of piston movement through the piston cylinder.

[0084] Although a flywheel or anti-balancing component is not required in embodiments of the motor speed control device, its presence may be beneficial for specific application embodiments. Furthermore, while pump motor operation may require less power, no implementation should be construed as limiting the rated power of the power supply or the horsepower of the motor.

[0085] In one embodiment, the motor speed control device may include rubber or adjustable feet or legs. In this embodiment, the device housing the pump motor can be leveled to prevent the motor from operating off-axis. Further, in another embodiment, the rubber feet may be positioned on the underside of the device housing the pump motor to suppress vibration and reduce noise pollution. In another embodiment, the housing of the motor speed control device or the housing of the main unit is insulated.

[0086] See Figure 5The present invention may include a piston cylinder 502 having a proximal end 504 and a distal end 506. A piston length 508 may extend from the proximal end 504 to the distal end 506. A piston 510 may be disposed within the piston cylinder and may follow a linear path. A proximal Hall effect sensor 512 may be disposed on the outer surface of the piston cylinder 502, at or near the proximal end 504. A distal Hall effect sensor 514 may be disposed on the outer surface of the piston cylinder 502, at or near the distal end 506. The Hall effect sensors 512 / 514 may be positioned such that they can detect the proximity of the piston 504. The piston 510 may be computer-controlled to accelerate or decelerate at various points along its travel. For example, the piston 510 may change its speed at a proximal threshold 516 and / or a distal threshold 518.

[0087] The present invention may include a motor speed control device for use with a piston pump, the piston pump including a piston held and captured within the piston pump, the piston being configured to travel linearly within a piston cylinder. The piston may be adapted to produce multiple compressions, and the piston may have a compression path and a decompression path. Further, the piston cylinder may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a piston length defined by the proximal and distal ends. The piston cylinder may have a proximal threshold position and a distal threshold position. In embodiments, the device further includes a proximal Hall effect sensor disposed on the outer surface of the proximal end of the piston cylinder and a distal Hall effect sensor disposed on the outer surface of the distal end of the piston cylinder. In a further embodiment, the apparatus includes a computer comprising one or more processors, one or more computer-readable memories and one or more computer-readable storage devices, and program instructions stored on at least one of the storage devices for execution via at least one of the processors, wherein the computer is in electronic communication with at least a proximal Hall effect sensor and a distal Hall effect sensor, wherein the memory includes computer-executable instructions configured to decrease the piston speed before each compression in a series of compressions and increase the piston speed after each compression in a series of compressions, wherein the computer-executable instructions instruct the piston to begin deceleration at a distal threshold position during the compression path and to begin deceleration at a proximal threshold position during the decompression path, and / or wherein the computer-executable instructions instruct the piston to begin acceleration at a distal threshold position during the decompression path and to begin acceleration at a proximal threshold position during the compression path.

[0088] The motor speed control device may further include an indexing sensor configured to index the piston. In an embodiment, the processor determines the piston speed by determining the actuation time of the near-Hall sensor and the actuation time of the far-near-near-Hall sensor, and comparing the actuation time of the near-near-near-Hall sensor, the actuation time of the far-near-Hall sensor, and the piston length. The piston may be at top dead center at the distal end and at bottom dead center at the proximal end. Acceleration and deceleration of the piston may be controlled by the processor via a pulse width modulation controller, wherein the pulse width modulation controller is configured to transmit information to the pump motor. In an embodiment, the positions of the near-near and far-near-near-threshold positions are functions of the piston speed and the piston weight. In a further embodiment, the device includes a first mode and a second mode, wherein the first mode includes an acceleration and deceleration plan for the pump motor at three horsepower and the second mode includes an acceleration and deceleration plan for the pump motor at more than three horsepower.

[0089] In an embodiment of the invention disclosed herein, a motor speed control device is used in conjunction with a piston pump, wherein the piston is held captive within the piston pump and configured to move linearly, wherein the piston is adapted to produce one or more compressions. The motor speed control device includes a computer comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory includes computer-executable instructions configured to decrease the speed of the piston before one or more compressions, and wherein the memory includes computer-executable instructions configured to increase the speed of the piston after one or more compressions.

[0090] While the invention has been described in conjunction with the embodiments outlined above, many alternatives, modifications, and variations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention set forth above are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A motor speed control device for use with a piston pump, comprising: A piston, which is held and captured within a piston pump, is configured to travel linearly within a piston cylinder. The piston is adapted to produce multiple compressions. The piston has a compression path and a decompression path. The piston cylinder includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a piston length defined by the proximal end and the distal end. The piston cylinder includes a proximal threshold position and a distal threshold position; A proximal Hall effect sensor is disposed on the outer surface of the proximal end of the piston cylinder; A distal Hall effect sensor, the distal Hall effect sensor being disposed on the outer surface of the distal end of the piston cylinder; and A computer, comprising one or more processors, one or more computer-readable memories and one or more computer-readable storage devices, and program instructions stored on at least one of the one or more storage devices, the program instructions being executed by at least one of the one or more processors via at least one of the one or more memories. The computer is in electrical communication with at least the proximal Hall effect sensor and the distal Hall effect sensor. The memory includes computer-executable instructions configured to decrease the piston speed before each compression in the multiple compressions and to increase the piston speed after each compression in the multiple compressions. The computer-executable instructions instruct the piston to begin deceleration at the distal threshold position during the compression path and at the proximal threshold position during the deceleration path. The computer-executable instructions instruct the piston to begin acceleration at the distal threshold position during the decompression path and at the proximal threshold position during the compression path. The positions of the proximal threshold position and the distal threshold position are functions of the piston's velocity and piston weight.

2. The motor speed control device according to claim 1, further comprising an indexing sensor configured to measure the piston.

3. The motor speed control device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor determines the piston speed by determining the actuation time of the proximal Hall effect sensor and the actuation time of the distal Hall effect sensor, and by comparing the actuation time of the proximal Hall effect sensor, the actuation time of the distal Hall effect sensor, and the piston length.

4. The motor speed control device according to claim 1, wherein, The piston is at top dead center at the distal end and at bottom dead center at the proximal end.

5. The motor speed control device according to claim 1, wherein, The acceleration and deceleration of the piston are controlled by the processor via a pulse width modulation controller configured to transmit information to the pump motor.

6. The motor speed control device according to claim 1, further comprising a first mode and a second mode, wherein, The first mode includes acceleration and deceleration plans for pump motors with less than three horsepower, and the second mode includes acceleration and deceleration plans for pump motors with more than three horsepower.

7. The motor speed control device according to claim 6, wherein, The pump motor has a duty cycle that varies between 75% and 120% of the desired duty cycle.

8. The motor speed control device according to claim 1, further comprising a flywheel.

Images