Pump housing with discharge opening for vehicle

Abstract

A pump housing associated with a vehicle includes a housing body at least partially defining a pump chamber. The pump chamber is configured to at least partially receive a pump. The pump housing includes a chamber cover configured to be removably coupled to the housing body. The chamber cover includes a mating surface configured to contact the housing body when the chamber cover is coupled to the housing body. The mating surface defines a sealing member groove spaced from the outer surface of the chamber cover and a discharge port configured to fluidly couple the sealing member groove with the outer surface. The sealing member groove has a depth, and the discharge port has a discharge depth that is 45% or less of the depth of the sealing member groove.

Description

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD The field relates generally to pump housings for use with vehicles, and more particularly to pump housings having a discharge port for use with a propulsion system of a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Typically, a vehicle may include one or more pumps that supply fluids, such as coolants, lubricating fluids, etc., to various components of the vehicle during operation. Typically, the pump is at least partially surrounded by a pump housing. During manufacture and / or assembly of the pump, the pump may be tested. In some instances, the pump and pump housing may be exposed to fluid during testing, and the fluid may accumulate in features of the pump housing. The accumulated fluid may not be visible when inspecting the pump housing, and may not be identified until after the pump housing is installed in the vehicle.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to limit the fluid accumulation in the pump housing prior to installation in a vehicle.Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the foregoing technical field and background. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to various embodiments, a pump housing associated with a vehicle is provided. The pump housing includes a housing body that at least partially defines a pump chamber. The pump chamber is configured to at least partially receive a pump. The pump housing includes a chamber cover that is configured to be removably coupled to the housing body. The chamber cover includes a mating surface that is configured to contact the housing body when the chamber cover is coupled to the housing body. The mating surface defines a sealing member groove that is spaced apart from an outer surface of the chamber cover and a drain port that is configured to fluidly couple the sealing member groove with the outer surface. The sealing member groove has a depth, and the drain port has a drain depth that is 45% or less of the depth of the sealing member groove.

[0005] The discharge port is a slot defined by a mating surface. The discharge port includes a plurality of discharge slots that are spaced apart around the periphery of the mating surface. The housing body at least partially defines a pump chamber and a second pump chamber, the second chamber cover is configured to be removably coupled to the second pump chamber, and the second chamber cover includes a second mating surface, the second mating surface defines a second sealing member groove spaced apart from the second outer surface of the second chamber cover, and the second mating surface is configured to contact the housing body. The second mating surface defines a second discharge port, and the second discharge port is configured to fluidically couple the second sealing member groove to the second outer surface. The chamber cover includes a fluid coupler that is defined by an outer surface and is fluidically coupled to the sealing member groove. The fluid coupler includes a contact surface around a hole, and the hole is defined between the outer surface and the sealing member groove. The hole has a diameter less than the depth of the sealing member groove. The discharge port is defined on the chamber cover so as to be substantially opposite to the fluid coupler. The pump housing is externally coupled to the propulsion system of the vehicle.

[0006] A vehicle is also provided according to various embodiments. The vehicle includes a propulsion system and a pump, the pump being configured to be fluidically coupled to the propulsion system to supply fluid to the propulsion system. The vehicle includes a pump housing configured to be externally coupled to the propulsion system. The pump housing includes a housing body and a chamber cover, the housing body at least partially defining a pump chamber to at least partially receive the pump, and the chamber cover being configured to be removably coupled to the housing body. The chamber cover includes a mating surface and a drain port, the mating surface defining a sealing member groove spaced apart from an outer surface of the chamber cover, and the drain port being configured to fluidically couple the sealing member groove to the outer surface. The sealing member groove has a depth, and the drain port has a drain depth that is 45% or less of the depth of the sealing member groove.

[0007] The discharge port is a slot defined by a mating surface. The discharge port includes a plurality of discharge slots spaced around the periphery of the mating surface. The housing body at least partially defines a pump chamber and a second pump chamber, the second chamber cover is configured to be removably coupled to the second pump chamber, and the second chamber cover includes a second mating surface, the second mating surface defines a second sealing member groove spaced apart from the second outer surface of the second chamber cover, and the second mating surface is configured to contact the housing body. The second mating surface defines a second discharge port, and the second discharge port is configured to fluidically couple the second sealing member groove with the second outer surface. The second discharge port includes a plurality of second discharge ports, and each of the plurality of second discharge ports is a slot defined by the second mating surface. The chamber cover includes a fluid coupler, which is defined by the outer surface and is fluidically coupled to the sealing member groove. The fluid coupler includes a contact surface around a hole, and the hole is defined between the outer surface and the sealing member groove. The hole has a diameter less than the cross-sectional diameter of the sealing member coupled to the sealing member groove. The discharge port is defined on the chamber cover so as to be substantially opposite to the fluid coupler. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Exemplary embodiments will be described below with reference to the following drawings, wherein like numerals represent like elements, and wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a vehicle including a pump housing having a discharge port associated with a propulsion system of the vehicle according to various embodiments;

[0010] Figure 1A is coupled to Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a pump housing of a propulsion system;

[0011] Figure 2 is a front view of a pump housing enclosing at least a portion of a first pump and a second pump associated with a vehicle according to various embodiments;

[0012] Figure 2A is from Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a portion of the pump housing and propulsion system taken along line 2A-2A;

[0013] Figure 3 is a rear view of a pump housing according to various embodiments;

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A detailed perspective view of a first chamber cover of a pump housing and a first portion of a housing body;

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 a perspective end view of a first chamber cover;

[0016] Figure 6 is a perspective end view of a second chamber cover associated with a pump housing according to various embodiments;

[0017] Figure 7 is a front view of a pump housing according to another exemplary embodiment, the pump housing enclosing at least a portion of a first pump and a second pump associated with a vehicle according to various embodiments;

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A detailed perspective view of a first chamber cover of a pump housing and a first portion of a housing body;

[0019] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 a perspective end view of a first chamber cover;

[0020] Fig.10 is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the first chamber cover and the first portion of the housing body taken along line 10-10; and

[0021] Fig.11 According to various embodiments, Figure 7 A perspective end view of another exemplary first chamber cover of a pump housing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and use. In addition, it is not intended to be bound by any express or implied theory proposed in the aforementioned introduction, brief overview or the following detailed description. In addition, the connecting lines shown in the various figures included in this article are intended to represent example functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] As used herein, the term "axial" refers to a direction that is generally parallel to or coincident with the axis of rotation, axis of symmetry, or centerline of one or more components. For example, in a cylinder or disk having a centerline and generally circular ends or opposing faces, the "axial" direction may refer to a direction that extends generally parallel to the centerline between the opposing ends or faces. In some instances, the term "axial" may be used with respect to components that are not cylindrical (or otherwise radially symmetrical). For example, the "axial" direction of a rectangular housing containing an axis of rotation may be considered to be a direction that is generally parallel to or coincident with the axis of rotation of the shaft. In addition, the term "radial" as used herein may refer to, for example, in a plane perpendicular to the centerline or axis of a cylinder or disk, the direction or relationship of a component relative to a line extending outward from a shared centerline, axis, or similar reference. In some instances, components may be considered to be "radially" aligned even if one or two of the components may not be cylindrical (or otherwise radially symmetrical). In addition, the terms "axial" and "radial" (and any derivatives) can encompass directional relationships that are not exactly aligned with (e.g., oblique to) the true axial and radial dimensions, provided that the relationship is primarily in the corresponding nominal axial or radial direction. As used herein, the term "approximately" means within 10% to account for manufacturing tolerances. In addition, the term "substantially" means within 10% to account for manufacturing tolerances.

[0024] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 1A According to various embodiments, a pump housing, generally shown as 100, is associated with a vehicle 10. As will be described, the pump housing 100 enables fluid accumulated on the pump housing 100 to be discharged from the pump housing 100 prior to installation in the vehicle 10. In this example, the pump housing 100 is coupled to the propulsion system 20 of the vehicle 10 so as to be completely disposed outside or external to the propulsion system 20 ( Figure 1A ), however, in other embodiments, the pump housing 100 may be located inside the propulsion system 20 and coupled within the propulsion system 20. Figure 1A , the direction of the front of the vehicle 10 is indicated by the arrow labeled 11. In this example, the pump housing 100 is coupled to the propulsion system 20 so as to be located on one side of an engine associated with the propulsion system 20, however, it should be noted that the pump housing 100 may be mounted or coupled to the propulsion system 20 in a variety of ways.

[0025] like Figure 1As depicted in , the vehicle 10 generally includes a chassis 12, a body 14, a front wheel 16, and a rear wheel 18. The body 14 is disposed on the chassis 12 and substantially surrounds the components of the vehicle 10. The body 14 and the chassis 12 may together form a frame. The vehicle wheels 16-18 are each rotationally coupled to the chassis 12 near a corresponding corner of the body 14. In various embodiments, the vehicle 10 is an autonomous vehicle or a semi-autonomous vehicle. It will be appreciated that the pump housing 100 may be implemented in other non-autonomous systems and is not limited to the present embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 10 is depicted as a passenger car, but it will be appreciated that any other vehicle may also be used, including motorcycles, trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), recreational vehicles (RVs), etc.

[0026] As shown, the vehicle 10 generally includes a propulsion system 20, a transmission system 22, a steering system 24, a braking system 26, a sensor system 28, an actuator system 30, and at least one controller 34. In various embodiments, the propulsion system 20 may include an internal combustion engine, an electric machine such as a traction motor, and / or a fuel cell propulsion system. In this example, the propulsion system 20 is an internal combustion engine. The transmission system 22 is configured to transmit power from the propulsion system 20 to the vehicle wheels 16 and 18 according to a selectable speed ratio. According to various embodiments, the transmission system 22 may include a stepped ratio automatic transmission, a continuously variable transmission, or other suitable transmission.

[0027] Braking system 26 is configured to provide braking torque to vehicle wheels 16 and 18. In various embodiments, braking system 26 may include friction brakes, brake-by-wire brakes, a regenerative braking system such as an electric motor, and / or other suitable braking systems.

[0028] The steering system 24 affects the position of the vehicle wheels 16 and / or 18. Although depicted as including a steering wheel 24a for purposes of illustration, in some embodiments contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure, the steering system 24 may not include a steering wheel.

[0029] The sensor system 28 includes one or more sensing devices 40a-40n that sense observable conditions of the external environment and / or the internal environment of the vehicle 10. In various embodiments, the sensing devices 40a-40n include, but are not limited to, radar (e.g., long-range, medium-range, short-range), lidar, global positioning system, optical camera (e.g., forward, 360 degrees, rearward, side, stereo, etc.), thermal (e.g., infrared) camera, ultrasonic sensor, odometer sensor (e.g., encoder) and / or other sensors that can be used in conjunction with the systems and methods according to the present subject matter. The sensor system 28 communicates with the controller 34 via a communication medium.

[0030] The actuator system 30 includes one or more actuator devices 42a-42n that control one or more vehicle features such as, but not limited to, the propulsion system 20, the transmission system 22, the steering system 24, and the braking system 26. In various embodiments, the vehicle 10 may also include Figure 1 Interior and / or exterior vehicle features not shown, such as various doors, trunks, and cabin features such as air, music, lighting, touch screen display components, active safety seats or haptic seats, etc.

[0031] The controller 34 includes at least one processor 44 and a computer readable storage device or medium 46. The processor 44 can be any custom or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) (e.g., a custom ASIC that implements a neural network), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an auxiliary processor of several processors associated with the controller 34, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), any combination thereof, or any device generally used to execute instructions. For example, the computer readable storage device or medium 46 can include volatile and non-volatile storage in read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and keep-alive memory (KAM). KAM is a persistent or non-volatile memory that can be used to store various operating variables when the processor 44 is powered off. The computer-readable storage device or medium 46 may be implemented using any of a number of known memory devices, such as a PROM (programmable read-only memory), an EPROM (electrical PROM), an EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), flash memory, or any other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combination memory device capable of storing data, some of which represents executable instructions used by the controller 34 in controlling the vehicle 10.

[0032] refer to Figure 2 , showing the pump housing 100 in more detail. In one example, the pump housing 100 encloses a first pump 102 and a second pump 104. In this example, the first pump 102 is an oil supply pump and the second pump 104 is an oil return pump. It should be noted that in other examples, the pump housing 100 can be configured to enclose a single pump, and further, the principles discussed herein can be applied to pumps associated with other fluids. In short, the first pump 102 is a single-chamber continuously variable vane pump enclosed within the pump housing 100. The first pump 102 receives a fluid, such as oil, through a supply inlet 106 defined in the pump housing 100. The supply inlet 106 is fluidly coupled to a tank, such as an oil tank 108 ( Figure 1 ). The pump housing 100 also defines a first pump outlet 110. Figure 2AFor example, the first pump 102 discharges pressurized fluid or oil through the first pump outlet 110 , and the pressurized fluid or oil may be supplied from the first pump outlet 110 to an oil cooler 111 associated with the propulsion system 20 .

[0033] The second pump 104 is a six-stage pump, and includes, but is not limited to, a six-stage gear pump. Figure 3 For example, the pump housing 100 can define six second inlets 112 that fluidly couple the gear associated with the second pump 104 to the propulsion system 20. It should be noted that although the second pump 104 is described herein as a six-stage gear pump, the second pump 104 can have any desired configuration, including any number of stages, and the pump housing 100 can be configured to correspond to the second pump 102. In addition, it should be noted that in other embodiments, the second pump can include a gerotor pump, and therefore, the second pump is not limited to a gear pump. Referring again to Figure 2 The pump housing 100 further defines a second pump outlet 114. The second pump outlet 114 is in fluid communication with the oil tank 108 via one or more pipes, hoses, couplers, etc. to return the oil purged by the second pump 104 to the oil tank 108.

[0034] The first pump 102 and the second pump 104 may be driven via a pump drive shaft 116. The pump drive shaft 116 may extend along a longitudinal axis L associated with the pump housing 100. Figure 2A , the pump drive shaft 116 may include a gear 116a, such as a spur gear, which may be coupled to or meshed with a drive pulley 117 associated with the propulsion system 20 such that the propulsion system 20 drives the first pump 102 and the second pump 104. For example, the gear 116a may be coupled to or meshed with mating teeth defined around a central hole of the drive pulley 117, and the drive pulley 117 may be associated with a crankshaft of the propulsion system 20 via a belt or the like such that rotation of the crankshaft drives the first pump 102 and the second pump 104. It should be noted that other techniques may be employed to drive the first pump 102 and the second pump 104.

[0035] In this example, the pump drive shaft 116 is a multi-piece shaft and includes a first drive shaft 119a, a second drive shaft 119b, and a third drive shaft 119c. The first drive shaft 119a is coupled to the second drive shaft 119b to rotate with the first drive shaft 119a. The first drive shaft 119a drives the first pump 102. The second drive shaft 119b is coupled to the third drive shaft 119c to rotate with the third drive shaft 119c. The third drive shaft 119c drives a portion of a gear of the second pump 104. In this example, the gear associated with the third drive shaft 119c meshes with the gear associated with the fourth drive shaft 119d, so that rotation of the third drive shaft 119c rotates the gear coupled to the third drive shaft 119c, which in turn rotates the gear coupled to the fourth drive shaft 119d.

[0036] Thus, in this example, the pump housing 100 defines two pump chambers: a first pump chamber 120a and a second pump chamber 120b, which are discrete and substantially fluidically isolated from each other. The first pump chamber 120a is associated with the first pump 102, and the second pump chamber 120b is associated with the second pump 104. The second portion 132b surrounds the second pump 104. Typically, the pump housing 100 defines a purge side (the second pump chamber 120b containing the second pump 104) and a supply side (the first pump chamber 120a containing the first pump 102) of the oil system. In this example, the pump housing 100 includes a first chamber cover 130, a housing body 132, and a second chamber cover 134. Typically, the first chamber cover 130, the housing body 132, and the second chamber cover 134 are each composed of a metal or a metal alloy and are cast, machined, additively manufactured, etc. In one example, the first chamber cover 130 cooperates with the first portion 132a of the housing body 132 to define the first pump chamber 120a, and the second chamber cover 134 cooperates with the second portion 132b of the housing body 132 to define the second pump chamber 120b.

[0037] The first chamber cover 130 is removably coupled to the housing body 132. Figure 4 , showing a first chamber cover 130 and a first portion 132a of a housing body 132. The first chamber cover 130 is removably coupled to the first portion 132a via one or more mechanical fasteners 136, which in this example include bolts. The first chamber cover 130 is removably coupled to the housing body 132 to provide access to the first pump 102 for repair, maintenance, etc. In this example, the first chamber cover 130 includes a first outer surface 140, a second inner surface 142 ( Figure 5 ), supply inlet 106, pump drive shaft container 144, at least one or more coupling holes 146, sealing member groove 148 ( Figure 5 ), at least one drain port 150 and a counterbore 152 ( Figure 5The coupling hole 146 , the sealing member groove 148 , and the at least one discharge port 150 are each defined in a first flange 154 that extends around the periphery of the counterbore 152 .

[0038] The first outer surface 140 defines the exterior of the first chamber cover 130. The first outer surface 140 is opposite to the second inner surface 142. The supply inlet 106 is defined by the first outer surface 140 and the second inner surface 142 so as to extend along an axis substantially oblique to the longitudinal axis L of the pump housing 100. The supply inlet 106 fluidly couples the first pump chamber 120a to the oil tank 108 ( Figure 1 ). The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 is substantially cylindrical and includes a central bore 144a sized to receive the pump drive shaft 116. The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 generally extends outwardly from the first outer surface 140 to provide clearance for coupling the pump drive shaft 116 to the propulsion system 20. The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 is defined at a first end of the first chamber cover 130 that is opposite to a second end of the first chamber cover 130.

[0039] The first flange 154 is integrally formed with the first chamber cover 130. Generally, the first flange 154 defines a mating surface for coupling the first chamber cover 130 to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132. The first flange 154 is defined at the second end of the first chamber cover 130 so as to be substantially opposite the pump drive shaft receptacle 144. A plurality of coupling holes 146 are spaced around the periphery of the first flange 154. The coupling holes 146 are defined at the first flange 154 by the first outer surface 140 and the second inner surface 142. When the first chamber cover 130 is positioned adjacent to the first portion 132a, each coupling hole 146 is coaxially aligned with a corresponding hole defined by the first portion 132a. Each coupling hole 146 is configured to receive a corresponding one of the mechanical fasteners 136 to couple the first chamber cover 130 to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132.

[0040] The sealing member groove 148 is defined in the second inner surface 142 at the first flange 154 so as to extend around the periphery of the first chamber cover 130 and substantially circumscribe the periphery of the first chamber cover 130. The sealing member groove 148 is axially defined in the second inner surface 142 to a depth D that is predetermined to accommodate the sealing member 149 ( Figure 5), such as an elastomeric gasket that is pressed into place. Typically, the depth D is about 6 millimeters (mm), however, the depth D can vary based on the type of sealing member employed. When the first chamber cover 130 is coupled to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132, the first chamber cover 130 and the first portion 132a cooperate to compress the sealing member 149 substantially around the perimeter of the first chamber cover 130 to seal the first chamber cover 130 against the housing body 132. In one example, a sealing member groove 148 is defined in the second inner surface 142 at the first flange 154 so as to surround the counterbore 152.

[0041] The counterbore 152 is defined at the second inner surface 142 to extend axially inward from the second end to the first end of the first chamber cover 130. The counterbore 152 is sized and shaped to at least partially receive the first pump 102 and couple the first pump 102 to the first drive shaft 119a ( Figure 2A ).

[0042] In one example, the at least one drain port 150 includes three drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c, which are narrow grooves defined in the second inner surface 142 at the first flange 154. Each of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c is defined with a drain depth DP that is less than about 50% of the depth D of the sealing member groove 148. In one example, the drain depth DP is about 1.2 millimeters (mm). By providing the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c with the drain depth DP, the sealing member 149 remains seated in and retained by the sealing member groove 148 to maintain the seal between the first chamber cover 130 and the housing body 132, while allowing fluid (such as oil) trapped in the sealing member groove 148 to be discharged from the pump housing 100 before installation in the vehicle 10. In this example, reference is made to Figure 5, each of the discharge ports 150a, 150b, 150c is defined in the second inner surface 142 as having a width W of about 8 millimeters (mm). The width W of the discharge ports 150a, 150b, 150c ensures that the stabilizer 151 associated with the sealing member 149 does not contact the corresponding one of the discharge ports 150a, 150b, 150c. In other embodiments, the width W may include less than 50% of the distance DS between the stabilizers 151 associated with the sealing member 149. For example, the distance between the stabilizers 151 associated with the sealing member is about 16 millimeters (mm), and the second width W2 will be less than about 8 millimeters (mm). In this example, each of the width W and the discharge depth DP is the same, but in other examples, one or more of the width W and / or the discharge depth DP may vary. Additionally, it should be noted that one or more of the widths W may be tapered such that the width of one or more of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c at the sealing member groove 148 may be different from and less than the width of the corresponding drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c at the first exterior surface 140. As will be discussed, generally, the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c are sized and shaped so that fluid or oil that may enter the sealing member groove 148 can be drained from the first chamber cover 130 or to the exterior of the pump housing 100 prior to installation in the vehicle 10. By draining the fluid or oil in the sealing member groove 148 prior to installation in the vehicle 10, the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c ensure that any fluid that is accumulated in the pump housing 100 is removed prior to installation.

[0043] In this example, three drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c are spaced around the periphery of the first flange 154. Typically, at least one of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c is oriented so that gravity can assist in extracting fluid from the sealing member groove 148. The drain port 150a is defined by the first flange 154 so as to be offset from the longitudinal axis L toward the supply inlet 106. The drain port 150a can also be used as an inlet so that air can enter the sealing member groove 148 to assist in draining fluid from the sealing member groove 148. The drain port 150b is defined by the first flange 154 so as to be aligned with the supply inlet 106. The drain port 150b is oriented downward so that gravity can assist in draining fluid or oil during manufacturing. The drain port 150c is defined by the first flange 154 to be aligned with the longitudinal axis L and is circumferentially offset from the drain port 150a. The drain port 150c is oriented downward so that gravity can assist in draining fluid or oil during transportation. In other words, drain port 150a is oriented upward or near the first surface of first chamber cover 130; drain port 150b is oriented to face downward near supply inlet 106 and second pump outlet 114 when pump housing 100 is oriented to discharge fluid from supply inlet 106 and second pump outlet 114; and drain port 150c is oriented downward or near the second surface of first chamber cover 130, which is substantially opposite the first surface. This ensures that fluid or oil is discharged from one of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c associated with pump housing 100 when pump housing 100 is manufactured and handled during shipping in various orientations.

[0044] Refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the housing body 132 includes a first portion 132a and a second portion 132b that are substantially fluidly isolated from each other. The first portion 132a is substantially cylindrical and is sized to at least partially receive the first pump 102. The first portion 132a also includes a first pump outlet 110, which may include a conduit that fluidly couples the first portion 132a with the first pump outlet 110. The second portion 132b substantially surrounds the second pump 104. The second pump outlet 114 is defined in the second portion 132b so as to be close to the first portion 132a, and the second inlet 112 is defined so as to be spaced apart from the second pump outlet 114. Generally, the second portion 132b may include a conduit defined between the second pump outlet 114 and the second inlet 112 to surround components associated with the second pump 104. The second inlet 112 is defined by the second portion 132b so as to be adjacent to or close to the second chamber cover 134. The housing body 132 may be comprised of discrete components that are coupled together via one or more mechanical fasteners, such as bolts, or may be monolithic or single-piece.

[0045] The second chamber cover 134 is removably coupled to the housing body 132 near the second inlet 112. The second chamber cover 134 is removably coupled to the first portion 132a via one or more mechanical fasteners 160, which in this example include bolts. The second chamber cover 134 is removably coupled to enable access to the second pump 104 for repair, maintenance, etc. In this example, reference is made to the first portion 132a. Figure 6 The second chamber cover 134 includes a third outer surface 162, a fourth inner surface 164 ( Figure 5 ), at least one or more second coupling holes 166 , a second sealing member groove 168 , at least one second discharge port 170 and a pair of alignment surfaces 172 .

[0046] The third outer surface 162 is substantially planar or flat and forms a portion of the outer surface of the pump housing 100. The fourth inner surface 164 is opposite to the third outer surface 162, and the fourth inner surface 164 forms a second mating surface that contacts the housing body 132 when the second chamber cover 134 is coupled to the housing body 132. The second sealing member groove 168, at least one second discharge port 170, and the pair of alignment surfaces 172 are defined in the fourth inner surface 164. A plurality of second coupling holes 166 are each defined in a corresponding flange 174 that extends outward from the periphery of the second chamber cover 134. In this example, the second chamber cover 134 includes two flanges 174 having corresponding second coupling holes 166 near or at a first end of the second chamber cover 134, and includes two flanges 174 having corresponding second coupling holes 166 at a second end of the second chamber cover 134, the second end of the second chamber cover 134 being opposite to the first end. It should be noted that any arrangement may be used to couple the second chamber cover 134 to the housing body 132 .

[0047] The second sealing member groove 168 is defined in the fourth inner surface 164 so as to extend around the periphery of the second chamber cover 134 and substantially surround the periphery of the second chamber cover 134. The second sealing member groove 168 is axially defined in the fourth inner surface 164 to a depth D that is predetermined to accommodate a second sealing member 165, such as an elastomeric gasket that is pressed into place. When the second chamber cover 134 is coupled to the second portion 132b of the housing body 132, the second chamber cover 134 and the second portion 132b cooperate to compress the second sealing member 165 substantially surrounding the periphery of the second chamber cover 134 to seal the second chamber cover 134 against the housing body 132. In one example, the second sealing member groove 168 is defined in the fourth inner surface 164 so as to surround the pair of alignment surfaces 172.

[0048] In one example, the at least one second drain port 170 includes two second drain ports 170a, 170b, which are slots defined in the fourth inner surface 164. Each of the second drain ports 170a, 170b is defined with a drain depth DP that is about 40% to about 50% of the depth D of the second sealing member groove 168. By providing the second drain ports 170a, 170b having the drain depth DP, the second sealing member 165 remains seated in and held by the second sealing member groove 168 to maintain the seal between the second chamber cover 134 and the housing body 132, while allowing fluid (such as oil) trapped in the second sealing member groove 168 to be drained from the pump housing 100 before installation in the vehicle 10. In this example, each of the second drain ports 170a, 170b is defined in the fourth inner surface 164 to have a second width W2 of about 4 millimeters (mm) to about 8 millimeters (mm). The second width W2 of the second discharge ports 170a, 170b ensures that the stabilizer 167 associated with the second sealing member 165 does not contact the corresponding one of the second discharge ports 170a, 170b. In other embodiments, the second width W2 may include less than 50% of the distance DS2 between the stabilizers 167 associated with the second sealing member 165. For example, the distance between the stabilizers 167 associated with the second sealing member 165 is about 16 millimeters (mm), and the second width W2 in this example will be less than about 8 millimeters (mm). In this example, each of the second width W2 and the discharge depth DP is the same, but in other examples, one or more of the second width W2 and / or the discharge depth DP may vary. In addition, it should be noted that one or more of the second width W2 may taper so that the second width of one or more of the second discharge ports 170a, 170b at the second sealing member groove 168 may be different from and less than the second width of the corresponding second discharge ports 170a, 170b at the third outer surface 162. As will be discussed, generally, the second drain ports 170a, 170b are sized and shaped so that fluid or oil that may enter the second sealing member groove 168 can be drained from the second chamber cover 134 or to the exterior of the pump housing 100 prior to installation in the vehicle 10. By draining the fluid or oil in the second sealing member groove 168 prior to installation in the vehicle 10, the second drain ports 170a, 170b ensure that any fluid accumulated in the pump housing 100 is removed prior to installation.

[0049] In this example, the second drain ports 170a, 170b are substantially opposite to each other around the perimeter of the second chamber cover 134. Typically, at least one of the second drain ports 170a, 170b is oriented so that gravity can assist in extracting fluid from the second sealing member groove 168. The second drain port 170a is defined by the second chamber cover 134 at a first end, and the second drain port 170b is defined by the second chamber cover 134 at a second end of the second chamber cover 134. The second drain port 170a can also be used as an inlet to allow air to enter the second sealing member groove 168 to assist in draining fluid from the second sealing member groove 168. The second drain port 170b is oriented downwardly so that gravity can assist in draining fluid or oil during transportation. It should be noted that although the second chamber cover 134 is described and shown herein as including the second drain ports 170a, 170b, in some embodiments, the second chamber cover 134 may not or need not include the second drain ports 170a, 170b.

[0050] The pair of alignment surfaces 172 are defined as counterbores into the fourth inner surface 164. Each alignment surface 172 is circular and includes at least one recessed tab that assists in guiding the wave spring into the second chamber cover 134 during assembly. In this example, each alignment surface 172 defines a corresponding drive shaft 119c, 119d ( Figure 2A ) thrust surface 172a, and a seat 172b for a wave spring. The seat 172b surrounds the thrust surface 172a. It should be noted that if desired, the fourth inner surface 164 does not need to include the pair of alignment surfaces 172.

[0051] It should be noted that although the first chamber cover 130 is described herein as including drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c to allow fluid or oil to drain from the sealing member groove 148 prior to installation in the vehicle 10, the first chamber cover 130 may be configured differently to allow fluid or oil to drain from the pump housing 100. In one example, referring to Figure 7 , shows a pump housing 200, which can be externally coupled to a propulsion system 20 associated with the vehicle 10. Since the pump housing 200 includes the same Figure 1-Figure 6 The components of the pump housing 100 discussed above are identical or similar components, and thus the same reference numerals will be used to represent identical or similar components. The pump housing 200 encloses the first pump 102 and the second pump 104. The first pump 102 receives fluid or oil through a supply inlet 106 defined in the pump housing 200. The pump housing 200 also defines a first pump outlet 110. For example, the pump housing 200 may define a second inlet 112 that fluidly couples a gear associated with the second pump 104 to the propulsion system 20. The pump housing 200 also defines a second pump outlet 114.

[0052] The first pump 102 and the second pump 104 can be driven via a pump drive shaft 116, and the pump drive shaft 116 can extend along a longitudinal axis L2 associated with the pump housing 200. The pump drive shaft 116 can include a gear 116a that can be coupled to or meshed with a gear associated with the propulsion system 20 so that the propulsion system 20 drives the first pump 102 and the second pump 104.

[0053] The pump housing 200 defines two pump chambers: a first pump chamber 120a and a second pump chamber 120b. In this example, the pump housing 200 includes a first chamber cover 230, a housing body 132, and a second chamber cover 134. Typically, the first chamber cover 230 is composed of a metal or a metal alloy and is cast, machined, additively manufactured, etc. In one example, the first chamber cover 230 cooperates with the first portion 132a of the housing body 132 to define the first pump chamber 120a, and the second chamber cover 134 cooperates with the second portion 132b of the housing body 132 to define the second pump chamber 120b.

[0054] The first chamber cover 230 is removably coupled to the housing body 132. Figure 4 , showing a first chamber cover 230 and a first portion 132a of the housing body 132. The first chamber cover 230 is removably coupled to the first portion 132a via mechanical fasteners 136. The first chamber cover 230 is removably coupled to the housing body 132 to provide access to the first pump 102 for repair, maintenance, etc. In this example, the first chamber cover 230 includes a first outer surface 240, a second inner surface 242 ( Fig. 9 ), supply inlet 106, pump drive shaft container 144, multiple coupling holes 146, sealing member groove 248 ( Fig. 9 ), at least one drain port 150 and a counterbore 252 ( Fig. 9 ). The coupling hole 146, the sealing member groove 248, and the at least one drain port 150 are each defined in a first flange 254 that extends around the periphery of the counterbore 252. In this example, the first chamber cover 230 also includes a fluid coupler 256.

[0055] The first outer surface 240 defines the exterior of the first chamber cover 230. The first outer surface 240 is opposite to the second inner surface 242. The supply inlet 106 is defined by the first outer surface 240 and the second inner surface 242 so as to extend along an axis substantially oblique to the longitudinal axis L2 of the pump housing 200. The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 is substantially cylindrical and includes a central hole 144a sized to receive the pump drive shaft 116. The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 is defined at a first end of the first chamber cover 230, the first end being opposite to the second end of the first chamber cover 230.

[0056] refer to Fig. 9 , the first flange 254 is integrally formed with the first chamber cover 230. Generally, the first flange 254 defines a mating surface that contacts the housing body 132 when the first chamber cover 230 is coupled to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132. The first flange 254 is defined at the second end of the first chamber cover 230 so as to be substantially opposite the pump drive shaft receptacle 144. A plurality of coupling holes 146 are spaced around the periphery of the first flange 254. The coupling holes 146 are defined at the first flange 254 by the first outer surface 240 and the second inner surface 242. When the first chamber cover 230 is positioned adjacent to the first portion 132a, each coupling hole 146 is coaxially aligned with a corresponding hole defined by the first portion 132a ( Figure 8 Each coupling hole 146 is configured to receive a corresponding one of the mechanical fasteners 136 to couple the first chamber cover 230 to the first portion 132 a of the housing body 132 .

[0057] The sealing member groove 248 is defined in the second inner surface 242 at the first flange 254 so as to extend around the periphery of the first chamber cover 230 and substantially surround the periphery of the first chamber cover 230. Fig.10 , a sealing member groove 248 is axially defined in the second inner surface 242 to a depth D that is predetermined to accommodate a sealing member 149, such as a resilient gasket that is pressed into place. When the first chamber cover 230 is coupled to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132, the first chamber cover 230 and the first portion 132a cooperate to compress the sealing member 149 substantially around the perimeter of the first chamber cover 230 to seal the first chamber cover 230 against the housing body 132. In one example, the sealing member groove 248 is defined in the second inner surface 242 at the first flange 254 so as to surround the counterbore 252.

[0058] Refer to Fig. 9 The counterbore 252 is defined at the second inner surface 142 to extend axially inward from the second end to the first end of the first chamber cover 230. The counterbore 252 is sized and shaped to at least partially receive the first pump 102 and couple the first pump 102 to the pump drive shaft 116 ( Figure 1 ).

[0059] In one example, the at least one drain port 150 includes three drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c, which are slots defined in the second inner surface 242 at the first flange 254. Each of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c is defined with a drain depth DP that is about 40% to about 50% of the depth D of the sealing member groove 248. By providing the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c with the drain depth DP, the sealing member 149 remains seated in and retained by the sealing member groove 248 to maintain the seal between the first chamber cover 230 and the housing body 132 while enabling fluid (such as oil) trapped in the sealing member groove 148 to be drained from the pump housing 200 before installation in the vehicle 10. In this example, each of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c is defined in the second inner surface 242 to have a width W. The size and shape of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c are designed so that fluid or oil that may enter the sealing member groove 248 can be drained from the first chamber cover 230 or drained to the outside of the pump housing 200 before installation in the vehicle 10. By draining the fluid or oil in the sealing member groove 248 before installation in the vehicle 10, the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c ensure that any fluid accumulated in the pump housing 200 is removed before installation.

[0060] In this example, three drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c are spaced apart around the perimeter of the first flange 254. Typically, at least one of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c is oriented so that gravity can assist in drawing fluid from the sealing member groove 248. The drain port 150a is defined by the first flange 254 so as to be offset from the longitudinal axis L2 toward the supply inlet 106. The drain port 150b is defined by the first flange 254 so as to be aligned with the supply inlet 106. The drain port 150c is defined by the first flange 254 to be aligned with the longitudinal axis L2 and circumferentially offset from the drain port 150a.

[0061] The fluid coupler 256 is defined on the first outer surface 240 of the first flange 254. Generally, the fluid coupler 256 is defined on the first outer surface 240 so that the fluid coupler is not accessible once the pump housing 200 is coupled to the propulsion system 20 and installed in the vehicle 10. The shape and size of the fluid coupler 256 are designed to enable a tool (such as a nozzle of a pneumatic hose) to be coupled to the first chamber cover 230 to direct or spray a purge fluid (such as pressurized air) into the sealing member groove 248. In one example, the fluid coupler 256 includes a contact surface 280 and a hole 282. The contact surface 280 is substantially semicircular and substantially planar or flat. The contact surface 280 is defined around the periphery of the hole 282. The contact surface 280 enables a tool (such as a nozzle of a pneumatic hose) to be positioned flush with the contact surface 280 to ensure that the purge fluid from the pneumatic hose is directed into the hole 282. The size and shape of the hole 282 is designed to be fluidly coupled to a tool (such as a nozzle of a pneumatic hose) or in fluid communication with the tool to direct the purge fluid into the sealing member groove 248. In one example, referring to Fig.10 , the hole 282 has a diameter DB of about 2.5 millimeters (mm). Typically, the diameter DB of the hole 282 is about 40% to about 45% of the cross-sectional diameter DS of the sealing member 149 in the installed state (the first chamber cover 230 is coupled to the housing body 132). Therefore, the diameter DB of the hole 282 is different from and smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of the sealing member 149, and is also different from and smaller than the depth D of the sealing member groove 248. Typically, the fluid coupler 256 is defined so that the hole 282 is not positioned directly adjacent to or aligned with the stabilizer 151 of the sealing member 149 to ensure that the purge fluid received from the hole 282 can flow through the sealing member groove 248. In other words, the hole 282 of the fluid coupler 256 is defined in the first flange 254 so that the stabilizer 151 does not block or impede the flow of the purge fluid directed through the hole 282.

[0062] like Fig.10, a hole 282 is defined by the first outer surface 240 so as to be fluidly coupled to the sealing member groove 248. By providing the first chamber cover 230 with a fluid coupler 256, a tool (such as a pneumatic hose) can be coupled to the fluid coupler 256 so that a nozzle is in fluid communication with the hole 282 to direct a purge fluid into the sealing member groove 248 to assist in discharging the fluid (such as oil) contained in the sealing member groove 248 out of the pump housing 200 through the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c. Thus, the fluid coupler 256 cooperates with the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c to discharge the fluid or oil accumulated in the sealing member groove 248 from the first chamber cover 230 before installation in the vehicle 10, or to discharge the accumulated fluid or oil to the outside of the pump housing 200. It should be noted that in some instances, the exhaust ports 150b, 150c may be defined at slightly different locations to ensure that the flow path length from the fluid coupler 256 to each exhaust port 150b, 150c is substantially the same.

[0063] It should be noted that while the first chamber cover 230 is described herein as including drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c to allow fluid or oil to drain from the sealing member groove 248 prior to installation in the vehicle 10, the first chamber cover 230 may be configured differently to allow fluid or oil to drain from the pump housing 200. In one example, referring to Fig.11 , shows a first chamber cover 330 that cooperates with the first portion 132a of the housing body 132 to define the first pump chamber 120a. Since the first chamber cover 330 includes the same Figure 7-Figure 10 The components of the first chamber cover 330 discussed are identical or similar components, and thus the same reference numerals will be used to represent identical or similar components. Typically, the first chamber cover 330 is composed of a metal or metal alloy and is cast, machined, additively manufactured, etc. The first chamber cover 330 is removably coupled to the housing body 132. The first chamber cover 330 is removably coupled to the first portion 132a via mechanical fasteners 136 to provide access to the first pump 102 for repair, maintenance, etc. In this example, the first chamber cover 330 includes a first outer surface 240, a second inner surface 342, a supply inlet 106, a pump drive shaft receptacle 144, a plurality of coupling holes 146, a sealing member groove 348, at least one drain port 350, and a counterbore 252. The coupling holes 146, the sealing member groove 348, and the at least one drain port 350 are each defined in a first flange 354 that extends around the periphery of the counterbore 252. In this example, the first chamber cover 330 also includes a fluid coupler 256 .

[0064] The first outer surface 240 defines the exterior of the first chamber cover 330. The first outer surface 240 is opposite to the second inner surface 342. The supply inlet 106 is defined by the first outer surface 240 and the second inner surface 342 so as to extend along an axis substantially oblique to the longitudinal axis L2 of the pump housing 200. The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 is substantially cylindrical and includes a central hole 144a sized to receive the pump drive shaft 116. The pump drive shaft receptacle 144 is defined at a first end of the first chamber cover 330, the first end being opposite to the second end of the first chamber cover 330.

[0065] refer to Fig. 9 , the first flange 354 is integrally formed with the first chamber cover 330. Generally, the first flange 354 defines a mating surface that contacts the housing body 132 when the first chamber cover 330 is coupled to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132. The first flange 354 is defined at the second end of the first chamber cover 330 so as to be substantially opposite the pump drive shaft receptacle 144. A plurality of coupling holes 146 are spaced around the periphery of the first flange 354. The coupling holes 146 are defined at the first flange 354 by the first outer surface 240 and the second inner surface 342. When the first chamber cover 330 is positioned adjacent to the first portion 132a, each coupling hole 146 is coaxially aligned with a corresponding hole defined by the first portion 132a ( Figure 8 Each coupling hole 146 is configured to receive a corresponding one of the mechanical fasteners 136 to couple the first chamber cover 330 to the first portion 132 a of the housing body 132 .

[0066] A sealing member groove 348 is defined in the second inner surface 342 at the first flange 354 so as to extend around the periphery of the first chamber cover 330 and substantially surround the periphery of the first chamber cover 330. The sealing member groove 348 is axially defined in the second inner surface 242 to a depth D that is predetermined to accommodate the sealing member 149. When the first chamber cover 330 is coupled to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132, the first chamber cover 330 and the first portion 132a cooperate to compress the sealing member 149 substantially around the periphery of the first chamber cover 330 to seal the first chamber cover 330 against the housing body 132. In one example, the sealing member groove 348 is defined in the second inner surface 342 at the first flange 354 so as to surround the counterbore 252.

[0067] In one example, at least one drain port 350 is a single slot defined in the second inner surface 342 at the first flange 354. The drain port 350 is defined with a drain depth DP that is about 40% to about 50% of the depth D of the sealing member groove 348. By providing the drain port 350 with the drain depth DP, the sealing member 149 remains seated in and retained by the sealing member groove 348 to maintain the seal between the first chamber cover 330 and the housing body 132 while enabling fluid (such as oil) trapped in the sealing member groove 148 to be drained from the pump housing 200 prior to installation in the vehicle 10. In this example, the drain port 350 is defined in the second inner surface 342 and has a width W. The width W of the drain port 350 ensures that the stabilizer 151 associated with the sealing member 149 does not contact the drain port 350. In addition, it should be noted that the width W of the drain port 350 can be tapered so that the width of the drain port 350 at the sealing member groove 348 can be different from and less than the width of the drain port 350 at the first outer surface 340. The size and shape of the drain port 350 are designed so that fluid or oil that may enter the sealing member groove 348 can be discharged from the first chamber cover 330 before installation in the vehicle 10. By discharging the fluid or oil in the sealing member groove 348 before installation in the vehicle 10, the drain port 350 ensures that any fluid accumulated in the pump housing 200 is removed before installation. In this example, the drain port 350 is oriented so that gravity can assist in extracting fluid from the sealing member groove 348. The drain port 350 is defined by the first flange 354 to be aligned with the longitudinal axis L2. Generally, the drain port 350 is defined on the first chamber cover 330 so as to be substantially opposite to the fluid coupler 256. The drain port 350 is oriented downward so that gravity can assist in discharging the fluid or oil during transportation.

[0068] A fluid coupler 256 is defined on the first outer surface 240 of the first flange 354. The fluid coupler 256 enables a tool to direct or spray a purge fluid, such as pressurized air, into the seal member groove 348. The contact surface 280 is defined around the perimeter of the aperture 282. The aperture 282 is sized and shaped to be fluidly coupled to or in fluid communication with a tool to direct the purge fluid into the seal member groove 348. The aperture 282 is defined by the first outer surface 240 so as to be fluidly coupled to the seal member groove 348. By providing the first chamber cover 330 with a fluid coupler 256, a tool, such as a pneumatic hose, can be coupled to the fluid coupler 256 so that a nozzle is in fluid communication with the aperture 282 to direct the purge fluid into the seal member groove 348 to assist in draining the fluid, such as oil, contained within the seal member groove 348 out of the pump housing 200 through the drain port 350. Therefore, the fluid coupler 256 cooperates with the drain port 350 to drain the fluid or oil accumulated in the sealing member groove 348 from the first chamber cover 330 or to drain the accumulated fluid or oil to the outside of the pump housing 200 before installation in the vehicle 10 .

[0069] Refer to Figure 7 As discussed, the housing body 132 includes a first portion 132a and a second portion 132b that are fluidly isolated from each other. The first portion 132a is sized to at least partially receive the first pump 102 and includes the first pump outlet 110. The second portion 132b surrounds the second pump 104. The second pump outlet 114 is defined in the second portion 132b so as to be accessible to the first portion 132a, and the second inlet 112 is defined so as to be spaced apart from the second pump outlet 114. The second chamber cover 134 is removably coupled to the housing body 132 near the second inlet 112. The second chamber cover 134 is removably coupled to enable access to the second pump 104 for repair, maintenance, etc. It should be noted that although the pump housing 200 is described herein as including the second chamber cover 134, which includes the second discharge ports 170a, 170b, in some embodiments, the second chamber cover 134 may not or need not include the second discharge ports 170a, 170b.

[0070] In one example, in order to couple the first pump 102 and the second pump 104 to the pump housing 100, 200 formed with the housing body 132, the second pump 104 may be inserted into the housing body 132 of the pump housing 100, 200 so that the corresponding gear of the second pump 104 is aligned with the corresponding one of the second inlets 112. In the case where the second chamber cover 134 is formed with the second discharge ports 170a, 170b, the second chamber cover 134 is coupled to the second portion 132b of the housing body 132 to surround the second pump 104. The first pump 102 is inserted into the first portion 132a of the housing body 132. In the case where the first chamber cover 130, 230, 330 is formed with the corresponding discharge ports 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, the first chamber cover 130, 230, 330 is coupled to the first portion 132a of the housing body 132 via the mechanical fastener 136.

[0071] With the pump housing 100, 200 assembled with the first pump 102 and the second pump 104 surrounded by the first chamber cover 130, 230, 330 and the second chamber cover 134, the pump housing 100, 200 with the first pump 102 and the second pump 104 can be tested before installation in the vehicle 10. In one example, to test the first pump 102, the second pump 104 and the pump housing 100, 200, the pump housing 100, 200 is immersed in a fluid (such as oil) so that the supply inlet 106 is at least partially disposed within the fluid in the test fixture. For example, the pump housing 100, 200 can be positioned so that the fluid reaches the fluid such as Figure 2 and Figure 7 The fluid line FL shown in FIG. 1 may be coupled to the supply inlet 106 and disposed in the fluid so that the first pump 102 draws fluid or oil into the first pump 102. It should be noted that Figure 2 and Figure 7 The fluid line FL in may vary based on the fluid or oil employed.

[0072] In the event that the pump housing 100, 200 is placed in fluid or oil for testing, the fluid or oil may inadvertently enter the sealing member groove 148, 248, 348 of the first chamber cover 130, 230, 330. Once removed from the test fixture, the pump housing 100, 200, the first pump 102 and the second pump 104 can be packaged and shipped for installation in the vehicle 10. In the example of the first chamber cover 130, the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c cooperate with gravity to allow any fluid or oil accumulated in the sealing member groove 148 to drain from the pump housing 100 during packaging and shipping before the pump housing 100, 200, the first pump 102 and the second pump 104 are installed in the vehicle 10. In the example of the first chamber cover 230, a tool is coupled to the fluid coupler 256 and is actuated to supply or direct a purge fluid, such as pressurized air, into the sealing member groove 248. The purge fluid may flow through the seal member groove 248 and drain the accumulated fluid or oil through the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c to remove oil from the pump housing 200 prior to installation in the vehicle 10. In the example of the first chamber cover 330, a tool is coupled to the fluid coupler 256 and actuated to supply or direct a purge fluid, such as pressurized air, into the seal member groove 348. The purge fluid may flow through the seal member groove 348 and drain the accumulated fluid or oil through the drain ports 350 to remove oil from the pump housing 200 prior to installation in the vehicle 10. The second drain ports 170a, 170b also cooperate with gravity to allow accumulated fluid or oil within the second seal member groove 168 to drain from the pump housing 100 during packaging and shipping of the pump housing 100, 200, the first pump 102, and the second pump 104 prior to installation in the vehicle 10.

[0073] By providing the pump housing 100, 200 with drains 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b, fluid or oil can be removed from the pump housing 100, 200 before installation in the vehicle 10. This ensures that any fluid or oil contained in the sealing member groove 148, 248, 348, 168 is removed before installation in the vehicle 10, which ensures that once installed, any accumulated fluid or oil does not leave the pump housing 100, 200. This improves owner satisfaction. Typically, the drains 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b ensure that fluid or oil that contacts the sealing member that is inaccessible after assembling the pump housing 100, 200 or the sealing member inside the pump housing 100, 200 can be passively or actively removed without disassembling the pump housing 100, 200. Furthermore, by positioning the fluid coupler 256 so that it is inaccessible once the pump housing 200 is coupled to the propulsion system 20, the fluid coupler 256 may not be inadvertently accessed by service personnel. Furthermore, it should be noted that while the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b are described and illustrated as including slots, one or more of the drain ports 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b may include an aperture that fluidly couples the sealing member recess 148, 248, 348, 168 to the exterior of the pump housing 100, 200. Furthermore, it should be noted that the locations and orientations of the drains 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b described and illustrated herein are merely examples, as the drains 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b may be positioned and oriented differently based on the shape of the chamber cover 130, 230, 330, 134. Furthermore, it should be noted that if condensed or other water is drawn into the sealing member groove 148, 248, 348, 168, the drains 150a, 150b, 150c, 350, 170a, 170b will also enable the condensed or other water to drain or be released from the pump housing 100, 200. For example, as the temperature of the pump housing 100, 200 rises and falls due to changes in the temperature of the fluid or oil, water may be drawn into the metal-to-metal joint defined between the first chamber cover 130, 230, 330 and / or the second chamber cover 134. Water may also be drawn into the joint defined between the first chamber cover 130, 230, 330 and / or the second chamber cover 134 as the temperature of the pump housing 100, 200 itself changes.

[0074] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that there are a large number of variations. It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiment or multiple exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the present disclosure in any way. On the contrary, the foregoing detailed description will provide a convenient roadmap for implementing the exemplary embodiment or multiple exemplary embodiments for those skilled in the art. It should be understood that various changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the attached claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A pump housing associated with a vehicle, comprising: a housing body at least partially defining a pump chamber configured to at least partially receive a pump; as well as A chamber lid configured to be removably coupled to the housing body, the chamber lid comprising a mating surface configured to contact the housing body when the chamber lid is coupled to the housing body, the mating surface defining a sealing member groove spaced apart from an outer surface of the chamber lid and a drain port configured to fluidly couple the sealing member groove with the outer surface, the sealing member groove having a depth, and the drain port having a drain depth that is 45% or less of the depth of the sealing member groove.

2. The pump housing according to claim 1, wherein: The drain port is a slot defined by the mating surface.

3. The pump housing according to claim 1, wherein: The vent includes a plurality of vent slots spaced about a perimeter of the mating surface.

4. The pump housing according to claim 1, wherein: The housing body at least partially defines the pump chamber and a second pump chamber, the second chamber cover is configured to be removably coupled to the second pump chamber, the second chamber cover includes a second mating surface, the second mating surface defines a second sealing member groove spaced apart from a second outer surface of the second chamber cover, the second mating surface is configured to contact the housing body, and the second mating surface defines a second drain port, the second drain port is configured to fluidly couple the second sealing member groove with the second outer surface.

5. The pump housing according to claim 1, wherein: The chamber cover includes a fluid coupler defined by the outer surface and fluidly coupled to the sealing member groove, the fluid coupler including a contact surface surrounding a hole defined between the outer surface and the sealing member groove, the hole having a diameter less than the depth of the sealing member groove, and the exhaust port is defined on the chamber cover so as to be substantially opposite to the fluid coupler.

6. The pump housing according to claim 1, wherein: The pump housing is externally coupled to a propulsion system of the vehicle.

7. A vehicle comprising: Propulsion system; a pump configured to be fluidly coupled to the propulsion system to supply fluid to the propulsion system; as well as The pump housing of claim 1, configured to be externally coupled to the propulsion system.

8. The vehicle according to claim 7, wherein: The drain port is a slot defined by the mating surface.

9. The vehicle according to claim 8, wherein: The vent includes a plurality of vent slots spaced about a perimeter of the mating surface.

10. The vehicle according to claim 7, wherein: The housing body at least partially defines the pump chamber and a second pump chamber, the second chamber cover is configured to be removably coupled to the second pump chamber, the second chamber cover includes a second mating surface, the second mating surface defines a second sealing member groove spaced apart from a second outer surface of the second chamber cover, the second mating surface is configured to contact the housing body, the second mating surface defines a plurality of second discharge ports, the plurality of second discharge ports are configured to fluidly couple the second sealing member groove with the second outer surface, and each of the plurality of second discharge ports is a narrow groove defined by the second mating surface.

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