Conduit system for booster pump

Abstract

A pump system includes a first cylinder, a first piston disposed within the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder, a second cylinder, a second piston disposed within the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder, and a conduit system. The first piston may move in a first direction to draw working fluid into the first chamber portion and may move in a second direction to pressurize the working fluid in the first chamber portion. The second piston may move in a third direction to draw the working fluid into the third chamber portion and may move in a fourth direction to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber portion. A conduit system fluidly couples the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion as one chamber portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to pumps, and more particularly to a catheter system for a booster pump. Background Art

[0002] A boost pump can be used to increase the pressure of a fluid (e.g., a gas). The boost pump may include multiple cylinders and corresponding pistons disposed within each cylinder. The movement of the pistons within the cylinders compresses the fluid within the cylinders, thereby increasing the pressure of the fluid. The interior of the cylinders may be prone to sucking in contaminants from the external environment surrounding the boost pump. Contaminants present within the cylinders may have a negative impact on the operation of the boost pump. For example, contaminants may mix with the fluid being compressed and affect its composition, or may reduce the operating efficiency of the components of the boost pump. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, a pump system includes a first cylinder, a first piston, a second cylinder, a second piston, and a conduit system. The first piston is disposed in the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion in the first cylinder, the first piston being configured to be movable in a first direction in the first cylinder to draw a working fluid into the first chamber portion, and the first piston being configured to be movable in a second direction in the first cylinder to pressurize the working fluid and discharge the working fluid from the first chamber portion. The second piston is disposed in the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion in the second cylinder, the second piston being movable in a third direction in the second cylinder to draw a working fluid into the third chamber portion, and the second piston being configured to be movable in a fourth direction in the second cylinder to pressurize the working fluid and discharge the working fluid from the third chamber portion. The conduit system fluidically couples the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion to each other, and the conduit system is configured to guide fluid flow between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion.

[0004] In another embodiment, the pump system includes a first cylinder, a first piston, a second cylinder, and a second piston. The first piston is arranged in the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion in the first cylinder, the first cylinder is configured to receive a working fluid at the first chamber portion, and the first piston is configured to pressurize the working fluid in the first chamber portion. The second piston is arranged in the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion in the second cylinder, the second cylinder is configured to receive a working fluid at the third chamber portion, and the second piston is configured to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber portion. In addition, the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion are fluidically connected to each other, and the first piston moves in the first cylinder to pressurize the working fluid in the first chamber portion, the second piston moves in the second cylinder to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber portion, or both, to guide the fluid to flow between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion.

[0005] In another embodiment, the conduit system includes a first branch fluidly coupled to a first chamber portion of a first cylinder, the first cylinder including a first piston defining a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion, and a second branch fluidly coupled to a third chamber portion of a second cylinder, the second cylinder including a second piston defining a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion. Movement of the first piston within the first cylinder pressurizes a working fluid within the second chamber portion, movement of the second piston within the second cylinder pressurizes a working fluid within the fourth chamber portion, and the first branch and the second branch fluidly couple the first and third chamber portions to each other. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] In order to make the description complete and provide a better understanding of the present disclosure, a set of drawings are provided. These drawings are an integral part of the description and illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiments should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, but are merely examples of how the present disclosure can be implemented.

[0007] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of fluid circuits of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of yet another fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method for operating a fluid circuit of a pump system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The present disclosure is intended to reduce potential contaminant ingestion in pump systems (e.g., superchargers). During operation, a supercharger increases the pressure of a fluid (e.g., a working fluid). For example, a supercharger includes a cylinder defining a chamber and a piston disposed within the chamber, the piston defining a first portion and a second portion of the chamber. The fluid is directed into the first portion (e.g., a pressurized portion), and the piston is able to move within the chamber to reduce the volume of the first portion, thereby pressurizing the fluid. The pressurized fluid is subsequently discharged from the chamber.

[0014] The movement of the piston to adjust the volume of the first portion also correspondingly adjusts the volume of the second portion. Specifically, the movement of the piston to reduce the volume of the first portion also increases the volume of the second portion; and the movement of the piston to increase the volume of the first portion also reduces the volume of the second portion. The movement of the piston to adjust the volume of the second portion may cause certain foreign particles to flow between the second portion and the external environment surrounding the cylinder. For example, the movement of the piston to increase the volume of the second portion may reduce the pressure within the second portion. This may cause foreign particles, ambient air, moisture, dust and / or debris (collectively referred to as foreign particles for simplicity) to flow from the external environment to fill the second portion with a reduced pressure.

[0015] Unfortunately, in some cases, foreign particles may mix with the fluid compressed by the pump system (referred to herein as the "working fluid" and variations thereof). For example, there may be space or a gap between the piston and the cylinder, allowing foreign particles to flow across the piston between the second portion and the first portion, thereby mixing with each other. As a result, the composition of the working fluid may be negatively affected. Additionally or alternatively, foreign particles may be expelled from the cylinder (e.g., from the first portion by the movement of the piston) and directed to other locations in the pump system. The foreign particles may then contact and potentially affect the structural integrity of components of the pump system (e.g., seals).

[0016] Therefore, reducing the suction of foreign particles into the cylinder can improve the composition of the pressurized working fluid and / or extend the effective life of the pump system. Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an additional fluid (e.g., a process fluid) is introduced into the second portion of the chamber defined by the cylinder. The additional fluid fills the second portion to pressurize the second portion and prevent potential suction of foreign particles into the second portion. For example, during the movement of the piston to increase the volume of the second portion (e.g., the movement of the piston to reduce the volume of the first portion), the additional fluid can be introduced into the second portion.

[0017] During the movement of the piston in order to reduce the volume of the second part (for example, the movement of the piston in order to increase the volume of the first part), the additional fluid can be discharged from the second part to promote the movement of the piston. Therefore, the additional fluid can be guided in and out of the second part to maintain the pressure in the second part without affecting (for example, hindering) the movement of the piston. The pump system includes a conduit system for guiding the additional fluid in and out of the second part. For example, the conduit system can connect the second part of the cylinder body with the additional cylinder body fluid, and (for example, during the movement of the corresponding piston in the cylinder body and the additional cylinder body) can facilitate the flow of the additional fluid between the cylinder body and the additional cylinder body. This connection can effectively utilize the additional fluid while avoiding external particles being sucked into each cylinder body. Accordingly, the operation of the pump system can be improved.

[0018] Figure 1 FIG2 is a cross-sectional view of a pump system 100. Pump system 100 is a pressure intensifier for increasing the pressure of a fluid (e.g., a gas). Pump system 100 includes a pump section 101 having a first cylinder 102 defining a first chamber 104 in which at least one working fluid can be pumped and / or pressurized. More specifically, a first piston 106 is disposed within first chamber 104 to divide first chamber 104 into a first chamber portion 104A and a second chamber portion 104B, respectively located on either side of first piston 106. First piston 106 is movable within first chamber 104 to adjust the volume of first chamber portion 104A and second chamber portion 104B. Pump section 101 also includes a second cylinder 112 defining a second chamber 114. A second piston 116 is disposed within second chamber 114 to divide second chamber 114 into a third chamber portion 114A and a fourth chamber portion 114B, respectively located on either side of second piston 116.

[0019] The pump section 101 includes a first end cap 118 (e.g., a first outer cap) and a first inner cap 120, which are respectively coupled to opposite ends of the first cylinder 102 to enclose the first chamber 104. A first chamber portion 104A is formed between a first end wall 122 (e.g., a first inner wall) of the first end cap 118 and a first side or first face 123 (e.g., a first pressurizing side) of the first piston 106, and a second chamber portion 104B is formed between a second end wall 124 (e.g., a first outer wall) of the first inner cap 120 and a second side or second face 126 (e.g., a back side) of the first piston 106. The pump section 101 also includes a second end cap 128 (e.g., a second outer cap) and a second inner cap 130, which are respectively coupled to opposite ends of the second cylinder 112 to enclose the second chamber 114. The third chamber portion 114A is formed between the second end wall 132 (e.g., second inner wall) of the second end cover 128 and the third side or third face 133 (e.g., second pressurized side) of the second piston 116, and the fourth chamber portion 114B is formed between the fourth end wall 134 (e.g., second outer wall) of the second inner cover 130 and the fourth side or fourth face 136 (e.g., back side) of the second piston 116.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first chamber portion 104A and the third chamber portion 114A are configured to receive a working fluid for pressurization by the first piston 106 and the second piston 116, respectively. For example, movement of the first piston 106 in a first direction 138 away from the first end cap 118 increases the volume of the first chamber portion 104A, thereby drawing a flow of working fluid into the first chamber portion 104A of the first cylinder 102. Movement of the first piston 106 in a second direction 140, opposite to the first direction 138, toward the first end cap 118 decreases the volume of the first chamber portion 104A, thereby increasing the pressure of the working fluid within the first chamber portion 104A and discharging the pressurized working fluid from the first chamber portion 104A. Movement of the second piston 116 in a second direction 140 away from the second end cap 128 increases the volume of the third chamber portion 114A, thereby drawing a flow of working fluid (e.g., the same or different fluid as the fluid in the first cylinder 102) into the third chamber portion 114A of the second cylinder 112. Movement of the second piston 116 in the first direction 138 toward the second end cap 128 reduces the volume of the third chamber portion 114A, thereby increasing the pressure of the working fluid within the third chamber portion 114A and discharging the pressurized working fluid out of the third chamber portion 114A. The first end cap 118 and the second end cap 128 include a first passage 142 and a valve (e.g., a one-way valve, such as a check valve) to allow the working fluid to flow into and out of the first chamber portion 104A and the third chamber portion 114A, respectively.

[0021] According to embodiments of the present application, process fluid or cavity fluid can fill the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B, thereby providing "breathing" or relief for the first piston 106 and / or the second piston 116, respectively (e.g., between strokes of the pistons 106, 116). That is, movement of the first piston 106 in the second direction 140 increases the volume of the second chamber portion 104B and can draw process fluid into the second chamber portion 104B. Subsequently, movement of the first piston 106 in the first direction 138 decreases the volume of the second chamber portion 104B and can expel process fluid from the second chamber portion 104B. Similarly, movement of the second piston 116 in the first direction 138 increases the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B and can draw process fluid into the fourth chamber portion 114B, while movement of the second piston 116 in the second direction 140 decreases the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B and can expel process fluid from the fourth chamber portion 114B. This movement of process fluid into and out of the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B can facilitate movement of the pistons 106, 116 (e.g., by balancing pressure on both sides of the pistons 106, 116). The first inner cover 120 and the second inner cover 130 include a second passage 144 and a valve (e.g., a check valve) to allow process fluid to flow into and out of the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B, respectively.

[0022] In addition, filling the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B with the desired process fluid can prevent foreign particles (e.g., ambient air or other contaminants that may negatively impact the operation of the pump system 100) from entering the cylinders 102, 112. For example, when the process fluid pressurizes the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B, the process fluid prevents foreign particles from potentially flowing from the external environment into the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B. Thus, introducing the process fluid into these locations can prevent or at least hinder contaminants from mixing with the working fluid and / or from coming into undesirable contact with components of the pump system 100. This, in turn, maintains the desired operation of the pump system 100 and / or the availability of the working fluid.

[0023] If the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B are filled with process fluid, but are not connected to the fluid conduit, the process fluid may flow across the first piston 106 and / or the second piston 116. That is, in this case, the process fluid may flow from the second chamber portion 104B to the first chamber portion 104A and / or from the fourth chamber portion 114B to the third chamber portion 114A, and mix with the working fluid in the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A. Therefore, by the technology proposed in the present application, the process fluid can be pressurized by pistons 106, 116 and directed to other places (for example, contact with other components of the pump system 100, directed to other systems connected to the pump system 100 fluid, or for other operations of further processes). However, for cautious considerations, the process fluid can also have the composition and other properties that avoid negatively affecting the operation of the pump system 100 and / or avoid undesirably contaminating the working fluid. For example, the process fluid can be hydrogen or include hydrogen.

[0024] In some embodiments, the working fluid streams directed through the pump portion 101 are pressurized separately by the first piston 106 and the second piston 116. For example, the working fluid stream is first pressurized by the first piston 106 (e.g., a low-pressure piston) in the first chamber 104 (e.g., a low-pressure chamber), and then the working fluid stream is directed from the first chamber 104 to the second chamber 114 (e.g., a high-pressure chamber) to be further pressurized by the second piston 116 (e.g., a high-pressure piston). In such an embodiment, the pump system 100 is a two-stage supercharger, which pressurizes the same working fluid streams separately by the pistons 106 and 116. In additional or alternative embodiments, different working fluid streams are pressurized by one of the pistons 106 and 116. That is, in some cases, different working fluid streams are directed to the first chamber 104 and the second chamber 114 for pressurization. In such an embodiment, the pump system 100 is a single-stage supercharger. The pump system can also operate according to any other known or future developed stage arrangement.

[0025] The pump portion 101 of the illustrated embodiment also includes a pump drive system 146 capable of actuating the pistons 106 and 116. The pump drive system 146 includes a drive shaft or drive rod 148 coupled to each of the first piston 106 and the second piston 116. For example, the drive shaft 148 includes a first end 150 extending toward the first cylinder 102 to couple with the first piston 106, and a second end 152 opposite the first end 150, extending toward the second cylinder 112 to couple with the second piston 116. Thus, movement of the drive shaft 148 drives movement of each of the pistons 106 and 116, at least in the illustrated embodiment. However, in other embodiments, the pistons 106 and 116 can be connected to and driven by their respective drive shafts 148.

[0026] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 (e.g., translation) drives the second piston 116 toward the second end cap 128 and the first piston 106 away from the first end cap 118. Accordingly, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 reduces the volume of the third chamber portion 114A to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber portion 114A and increases the volume of the first chamber portion 104A to draw the working fluid into the first chamber portion 104A. Movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 (e.g., translation) drives the first piston 106 toward the first end cap 118 and the second piston 116 away from the second end cap 128. Thus, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 reduces the volume of the first chamber portion 104A to pressurize the working fluid in the first chamber portion 104A and increases the volume of the third chamber portion 114A to draw the working fluid into the third chamber portion 114A. The drive shaft 148 may be alternately movable in the first direction 138 and the second direction 140 to alternately pressurize the fluid in the first chamber portion 104A and the fluid in the third chamber portion 114A.

[0027] The pump drive system 146 also includes a housing 154 that defines an interior space 156. The drive shaft 148 extends through the interior space 156, and the housing 154 shields the drive shaft 148 from the external environment, thereby protecting the drive shaft 148 from dust, debris, or other contaminants in the external environment. The housing 154 can also align the drive shaft 148 with the first chamber 104 and the second chamber 114.

[0028] For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a first adapter 158 is coupled to the housing 154 and the first inner cover 120, and the first inner cover 120 (e.g., the second end wall 124) is coupled to the first cylinder body 102 to couple and align the housing 154 with the first cylinder body 102. A second adapter 160 is also coupled to the housing 154 and further coupled to the second inner cover 130, and the second inner cover 130 (e.g., the fourth end wall 134) is coupled to the second cylinder body 112 to couple and align the housing 154 with the second cylinder body 112. The drive shaft 148 extends through the adapters 158, 160 and into the cylinder bodies 102, 112 aligned with the housing 154. Additionally, first end cap 118 (e.g., first end wall 122) is coupled to first cylinder body 102, and first tie rod 162 is coupled to first adapter 158 and first end cap 118, thereby providing further securement between housing 154 coupled to first adapter 158 and first cylinder body 102 coupled to first end cap 118. Second end cap 128 (e.g., second end wall 132) is coupled to second cylinder body 112, and second tie rod 164 is coupled to second adapter 160 and second end cap 128, thereby providing further securement between housing 154 coupled to second adapter 160 and second cylinder body 112 coupled to second end cap 128. However, in other embodiments, housing 154 may be coupled to one or more cylinder bodies in any known or later developed manner.

[0029] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit 200 that may be implemented in the pump system 100. The fluid circuit 200 includes a conduit system 202 that is fluidically coupled to the pump portion 101. For ease of viewing, certain components of the pump system 100 are not shown, such as the end caps 118, 128, the inner caps 120, 130, and the adapters 158, 160. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, a working fluid source 204 (e.g., a working fluid reservoir, a working fluid processing system) is shown that directs working fluid into the pump portion 101, although the working fluid source 204 need not be part of the pump system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, different working fluid streams are directed to respective cylinders 102, 112. That is, the working fluid source 204 directs a first working fluid stream 206 into the first cylinder 102, for example, into the first chamber portion 104A (e.g., via the first passage 142 of the first end cap 118), and directs a second working fluid stream 208 into the second cylinder 112, for example, into the third chamber portion 114A (e.g., via the first passage 142 of the second end cap 128). Thus, the pistons 106 and 116 pressurize the working fluid streams 206 and 208, respectively. For example, movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138 causes the second piston 116 to pressurize the second working fluid stream 208 in the third chamber portion 114A, and movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 causes the first piston 106 to pressurize the first working fluid stream 206 in the first chamber portion 104A.

[0030] After the pump section 101 pressurizes the first working fluid stream 206 and the second working fluid stream 208, these working fluid streams 206 and 208 are discharged from the cylinders 102 and 112, respectively, and directed to a working fluid destination 210 (e.g., other components of the pump system 100, components outside the pump system 100). To this end, a first valve 212 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the first working fluid stream 206 from leaving the first cylinder 102 and going to the working fluid source 204, thereby forcing the pressurized first working fluid stream 206 to be discharged toward the working fluid destination 210, and a second valve 214 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the second working fluid stream 208 from leaving the second cylinder 112 and going to the working fluid source 204, thereby forcing the pressurized second working fluid stream 208 to be discharged toward the working fluid destination 210.

[0031] As an example, the pressurized working fluid streams 206 and 208 discharged from the cylinders 102 and 112, respectively, can be combined and directed to the same working fluid destination 210. Additionally or alternatively, the pressurized working fluid streams 206 and 208 can be directed separately (e.g., in parallel with each other) to the same working fluid destination 210 or to different working fluid destinations 210. In both cases, the pump system 100 is a single-stage intensifier, wherein each working fluid stream 206 and 208 is pressurized once by one of the pistons 106 and 116, respectively. The third valve 216 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the pressurized working fluid streams 206 and 208 from re-entering the first cylinder 102, and the fourth valve 218 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the pressurized working fluid streams 206 and 208 from re-entering the second cylinder 112. Thus, the pressurized working fluid streams 206 and 208 are forced to go to the working fluid destination 210.

[0032] The conduit system 202 can direct process fluid / gas into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B. The process fluid in the second chamber portion 104B can facilitate movement of the first piston 106, and the process fluid in the fourth chamber portion 114B can facilitate movement of the second piston 116. Furthermore, the process fluid in the second chamber portion 104B and the process fluid in the fourth chamber portion 114B can prevent foreign particles (e.g., ambient air, dust, debris) from entering the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B, thereby maintaining desired operation of the pump system 100. For example, preventing foreign particles from entering the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B can prevent or at least inhibit foreign particles (e.g., by flowing foreign particles from the second chamber portion 104B to the first chamber portion 104A across the first piston 106 and / or from the fourth chamber portion 114B to the third chamber portion 114A across the second piston 116) from mixing with the working fluid. Rather, any substance mixed into the working fluid, including process fluid mixed into the working fluid, does not negatively impact the operation and / or structural integrity of the pump system 100. Thus, the desired operation and / or useful life of the pump system 100 may be maintained.

[0033] The conduit system 202 includes a first branch or first exchange conduit 220 that directs process fluid into and out of the second chamber portion 104B, and a second branch or second exchange conduit 222 that directs process fluid into and out of the fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, the first exchange conduit 220 and the second exchange conduit 222 can be fluidically coupled to the second passage 144 of the inner cover 120, 130. In addition, the first exchange conduit 220 and the second exchange conduit 222 are fluidically coupled to each other via a third exchange conduit 224 (e.g., a shared conduit). Thus, the process fluid can flow between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B via the exchange conduits 220, 222, 224.

[0034] More specifically, movement of drive shaft 148 in first direction 138 moves first piston 106 to reduce the volume of second chamber portion 104B and moves second piston 116 to increase the volume of fourth chamber portion 114B. As a result, process fluid is forced out of second chamber portion 104B and into first exchange conduit 220. From there, process fluid flows through third exchange conduit 224 and second exchange conduit 222 into fourth chamber portion 114B, filling fourth chamber portion 114B. Thus, process fluid is exchanged between cylinders 102 and 112 based on the volume adjustments of second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B, caused by the movement of pistons 106 and 116. However, the shrinking chamber (e.g., chamber portion 104B in this example) does not empty. In contrast, both the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B remain filled with a suitable amount / pressure of process fluid to prevent foreign particles from entering the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the pump section 101 is arranged such that a volume adjustment of the second chamber portion 104B corresponds to a volume adjustment of the fourth chamber portion 114B. That is, for example, when the first piston 106 moves to increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B by a specific amount, the second piston 116 can move to decrease the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B by the same specific amount. The corresponding volume adjustments of the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B result in corresponding amounts of process fluid flowing between the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B.

[0036] For example, reducing the volume of fourth chamber portion 114B by a specific amount will cause a certain amount of process fluid to be expelled from fourth chamber portion 114B. Correspondingly, the volume of second chamber portion 104B will increase by approximately the same specific amount to accommodate the amount of process fluid drawn in and expelled from fourth chamber portion 114B. In other words, the movement of pistons 106, 116 that reduces the volume of one of chamber portions 104B, 114B may simultaneously increase the volume of the other of chamber portions 104B, 114B, causing a certain amount of process fluid to flow from one of chamber portions 104B, 114B to the other of chamber portions 104B, 114B. In this manner, the total amount of process fluid within conduit system 202 can be easily controlled and maintained during operation of pump system 100. In some cases, a relatively constant amount of process fluid flows between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B because the cylinders 102 and 112 have substantially the same cross-sectional area (e.g., the same size) and the pistons 106 and 116 have substantially the same cross-sectional area (e.g., the same size). However, other embodiments may transfer a constant amount of process fluid between cylinders of different geometries by adjusting stroke length, cylinder size, piston size, etc.

[0037] In some cases, it may be necessary to direct the fluid away from the conduit system 202 (e.g., to an external environment, a fluid reservoir, a fluid handling system). For example, it may be necessary to clean or replace the process fluid to remove potential contaminants that may be contained in the process fluid and / or to avoid pressure buildup within the conduit system 202, which may affect the structural integrity of components of the conduit system 202 (e.g., due to leakage of the working fluid into the conduit system 202). Thus, the effective life of the conduit system 202 can be extended. To this end, the shown conduit system 202 includes a first exhaust conduit 226 and a second exhaust conduit 228. The first exhaust conduit 226 is fluidically coupled to the first exchange conduit 220 and the third exchange conduit 224 via a first three-way valve 230, and the second exhaust conduit 228 is fluidically coupled to the second exchange conduit 222 and the third exchange conduit 224 via a second three-way valve 232.

[0038] The three-way valves 230 and 232 can be adjusted to change the flow of process fluid through the conduit system 202. For example, a first position of the first three-way valve 230 can direct fluid from the first crossover conduit 220 to the third crossover conduit 224 (e.g., directing the process fluid to the fourth chamber portion 114B), and a second position of the first three-way valve 230 can direct fluid from the first crossover conduit 220 to the first exhaust conduit 226 (e.g., directing the process fluid out of the conduit system 202). A first position of the second three-way valve 232 can direct fluid from the second crossover conduit 222 to the third crossover conduit 224 (e.g., directing the process fluid to the second chamber portion 104B), and a second position of the second three-way valve 232 can direct fluid from the second crossover conduit 222 to the second exhaust conduit 228 (e.g., directing the process fluid out of the conduit system 202). Thus, the three-way valves 230 and 232 can be adjusted between the first and second positions to selectively control the flow of fluid through the conduit system 202. In some embodiments, the three-way valves 230, 232 can be switched to an intermediate position between the first position and the second position to direct some fluid to the third crossover conduit 224 and some fluid to the respective drain conduits 226, 228. That is, in other embodiments, the conduit system 202 can include any number of drain paths / conduits at any location and can connect the drain paths / conduits to the crossover conduits in any manner.

[0039] In some embodiments, the pump system 100 includes or is in communication with a control system 234 that is capable of operating certain components of the pump system 100, such as the drive shaft 148 and the three-way valves 230 and 232. The control system 234 includes a memory 236 and a processor 238 (e.g., processing circuitry). The memory 236 includes read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media devices, optical storage media devices, flash memory devices, electrical, optical, or other physical / tangible (e.g., non-transitory) storage devices. Thus, generally speaking, the memory 236 includes one or more computer-readable storage media (e.g., storage devices) encoded with software having instructions executable by a computer to implement the operations described herein. For example, the memory 236 stores or is encoded with instructions for operating the pump system 100. The processor 238 includes, for example, a collection of one or more microcontrollers and / or microprocessors, each configured to execute corresponding software instructions stored in the memory 236. The processor 238 is, for example, configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 236 to operate the pump system 100 .

[0040] For example, the control system 234 is configured to operate the three-way valves 230, 232 to regulate the flow of fluid through the conduit system 202. In certain embodiments, the control system 234 is configured to adjust the position of the three-way valves 230, 232 based on parameters determined by the sensor 240. The parameters may indicate, for example, the composition of the fluid in the conduit system 202 (e.g., flowing through any of the exchange conduits 220, 222, 224), the pressure of the fluid in the conduit system 202, and / or the temperature of the fluid in the conduit system 202. When the parameters indicate that the fluid needs to be drained (e.g., the composition of the fluid has changed, indicating the presence of contaminants, the fluid pressure exceeds a threshold, indicating that the process fluid is undesirably flowing into the conduit system 202, or the fluid temperature exceeds a threshold range, indicating that the utility of the process fluid may have changed), the control system 234 responsively adjusts the three-way valves 230, 232 to a second position to direct the fluid to the drain conduits 226, 228 for draining from the conduit system 202. To this end, the control system 234 is communicatively coupled to the sensor 240 and is capable of receiving parameters and accordingly operating the three-way valves 230, 232 based on the received parameters. In additional or alternative embodiments, the control system 234 is configured to adjust the positions of the three-way valves 230, 232 at a set frequency. For example, the control system 234 is configured to transition the three-way valves 230, 232 from a first position to a second position at set time intervals to drain the fluid from the conduit system 202, regardless of the defined parameters of the fluid.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, the conduit system 202 can include a drain system 242 configured to drain fluid from the conduit system 202 (e.g., to an external environment, a fluid reservoir, a fluid handling system), e.g., based on pressure, to avoid pressure buildup in the conduit system 202. Thus, the drain system 242 can further help extend the useful life of the conduit system 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain system 242 is fluidically coupled to the third exchange conduit 224. For example, the drain system 242 can include a regulating valve 244 that can be opened or activated when the fluid pressure in the conduit system 202 exceeds a first threshold pressure (e.g., a lower threshold pressure), e.g., a pressure between 1.5 bar (21.8 pounds per square inch (psi)) and 2 bar (29 psi).

[0042] Thus, regulating valve 244 maintains the fluid pressure in conduit system 202 below a first threshold pressure. Additionally or alternatively, discharge system 242 may include a pressure relief valve 246 that is configured to open or activate when the fluid pressure in conduit system 202 exceeds a second threshold pressure (e.g., a higher threshold pressure), such as a pressure between 6 bar (87 psi) and 7 bar (101.5 psi). Thus, pressure relief valve 246 is configured to increase the amount of fluid discharged from conduit system 202 (e.g., in combination with the amount of fluid discharged from conduit system 202 via regulating valve 244) while maintaining the fluid pressure in conduit system 202 below a second threshold pressure, such as near the first threshold pressure. That is, when the pressure in conduit system 202 exceeds the second threshold pressure, both regulating valve 244 and pressure relief valve 246 may open to increase the amount of fluid discharged from conduit system 202.

[0043] Still see Figure 2 , the conduit system 202 is shown fluidly coupled to a process fluid / gas source 248 (e.g., a process fluid reservoir, a process fluid handling system), which may, but need not, be part of or in fluid communication with the pump system 100, and which is capable of directing process fluid into the conduit system 202. Thus, the process fluid source 248 can increase or supplement the amount of process fluid in the conduit system 202, enabling the conduit system 202 to direct process fluid to fill the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, the conduit system 202 can include a process fluid valve 250 capable of receiving process fluid from the process fluid source 248 and directing the process fluid into the third exchange conduit 224 to introduce the process fluid into the conduit system 202.

[0044] In some embodiments, the process fluid valve 250 is a regulating valve that can direct process fluid into the conduit system 202 based on the pressure within the conduit system 202, which is indicative of the amount of process fluid in the conduit system 202. For example, the process fluid valve 250 can open when the pressure within the conduit system 202 falls below a minimum threshold pressure (e.g., indicating that the amount of process fluid is low), which can be a pressure between 0.3 bar (4.4 psi) and 1 bar (14.5 psi). Thus, the process fluid can be directed into the conduit system 202 and the cylinders 102, 112 (e.g., the second chamber portion 104B, the fourth chamber portion 114B) and maintained above the minimum threshold pressure within the conduit system 202 and the cylinders 102, 112 (e.g., the second chamber portion 104B, the fourth chamber portion 114B).

[0045] Additionally or alternatively, the control system 234 can be communicatively coupled to a process fluid valve 250 and can be configured to open the process fluid valve 250 based on the fluid pressure within the conduit system 202 (e.g., as indicated by the sensor 240) being below a minimum threshold pressure and / or at a set frequency. In both embodiments, the process fluid valve 250 is configured to direct process fluid into the conduit system 202 to maintain a desired amount of fluid in the conduit system 202. For example, the process fluid valve 250 can introduce process fluid into the conduit system 202 at a pressure higher than the pressure of the external air in the external environment so that the conduit system 202 can maintain the pressure in the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B above the minimum threshold pressure to prevent foreign particles from entering the cylinders 102, 112.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the conduit system 202 directs fluid to the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A. For example, the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B may contain a portion of the working fluid streams 206 and 208, respectively (e.g., a portion of the first working fluid stream 206 may leak from the first chamber portion 104A to the second chamber portion 104B, and a portion of the second working fluid stream 208 may leak from the third chamber portion 114A to the fourth chamber portion 114B). The conduit system 202 directs such working fluid streams 206 and 208 from the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B to the first chamber portion 104A and / or the second chamber portion 114A. Thus, the conduit system 202 enables the working fluid streams 206, 208 to be pressurized (e.g., even though the working fluid streams 206, 208 may initially bypass the pistons 106, 116) rather than being directed away from the pump portion 101, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the pump system 100. In such an embodiment, a filter or similar component can be used to remove fluid particles other than the working fluid streams 206, 208 from the conduit system 202 to avoid directing other fluids (e.g., process fluid) into the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A. Thus, the filter can prevent or at least inhibit the working fluid streams 206, 208 from undesirably mixing with other fluids and subsequently pressurizing fluids other than the working fluid streams 206, 208. As a result, the working fluid streams 206, 208 having a more desirable composition can be pressurized in the first chamber portion 104A and / or the third chamber portion 114A.

[0047] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit 300 that may be implemented in the pump system 100. The fluid circuit 300 includes a conduit system 202 that is fluidly coupled to the pump portion. Figure 2Similarly. Thus, the conduit system 202 is capable of directing process fluid into the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, the conduit system 202 includes exchange conduits 220, 222, 224 for directing process fluid between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B, exhaust conduits 226, 228 capable of directing fluid out of the conduit system 202 by operating three-way valves 230, 232 (e.g., by a control system 234), and a drain system 242 capable of draining fluid from the conduit system 202 based on pressure. In addition, the conduit system 202 is capable of receiving process fluid from a process fluid source 248 via a process fluid valve 250. However, here, the pump system 100 is a two-stage intensifier, which pressurizes the working fluid stream 304 via the first piston 106 and then the second piston 116.

[0048] Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, a working fluid stream 304 directed by the working fluid source 204 is pressurized by the first piston 106 and the second piston 116, respectively. That is, the working fluid source 204 directs the working fluid stream 304 into the first cylinder 102, for example (e.g., via the first passage 142 of the first end cap 118) into the first chamber portion 104A, where the first piston 106 pressurizes the working fluid stream 304 (e.g., via movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140) and discharges the working fluid stream 304 as a first pressurized working fluid stream 306. The first pressurized working fluid stream 306 is then directed into the third chamber portion 114A (e.g., via the first passage 142 of the second end cap 128) and further pressurized by the second piston 116 (e.g., via movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138) to provide a second pressurized working fluid stream 308. The second pressurized working fluid stream 308 is discharged from the second cylinder 112 and directed to the working fluid destination 210.

[0049] In order to realize this solution, the arrangement of the cylinder valve of the pump part 101 is similar to Figure 210. Specifically, the first valve 310 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the working fluid stream 304 (e.g., the first pressurized working fluid stream 306) from leaving the first cylinder 102 to go to the working fluid source 204, and the second valve 312 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the first pressurized working fluid stream 306 from re-entering the first cylinder 102. Therefore, the first pressurized working fluid stream 306 is forced to go to the second cylinder 112. In addition, the third valve 314 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the working fluid stream 304 (e.g., the second pressurized working fluid stream 308) from leaving the second cylinder 112 to go to the first cylinder 102, and the fourth valve 316 (which can be a one-way valve, such as a check valve) prevents the second pressurized working fluid stream 308 from re-entering the second cylinder 112. Therefore, the second pressurized working fluid stream 308 is forced to go to the working fluid destination 210. Thus, the valves 310 , 312 , 314 , 316 may enable the pump system 100 to operate as a two-stage intensifier to pressurize the working fluid flow 304 through the pistons 106 and 116 .

[0050] Figure 4 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid circuit 400 that may be implemented in the pump system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the pump system 100 is a single-stage intensifier in which the working fluid streams 206, 208 are pressurized separately by the pistons 106, 116. That is, the first piston 106 pressurizes the first working fluid stream 206 (e.g., by movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140), the second piston 116 pressurizes the second working fluid stream 208 (e.g., by movement of the drive shaft 148 in the first direction 138), and the pressurized working fluid streams 206, 208 are directed (e.g., as a combined working fluid stream) to the working fluid destination 210. However, this is merely an example, Figure 4 The solution shown in is also applicable to pumps with two or more stages.

[0051] Fluid circuit 400 includes a conduit system 402 that can direct process fluid into second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B. The illustrated conduit system 402 includes an exchange conduit 404 (e.g., a shared exchange conduit, a common exchange conduit, or multiple exchange conduits fluidically coupled to one another) that can direct process fluid into and out of second chamber portion 104B and into and out of fourth chamber portion 114B. For example, exchange conduit 404 can be fluidically coupled to second passage 144 of adapters 158, 160, and process fluid can flow through exchange conduit 404 to flow between second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B. However, fluid circuit 400 has a different exhaust path than the fluid circuits shown in the previous figures.

[0052] Specifically, the conduit system 402 includes a drain conduit 406 (e.g., a shared drain conduit, a common drain conduit) that serves as a single drain path capable of directing fluid out of the conduit system 402. The drain conduit 406 is fluidically coupled to the exchange conduit 404. Thus, the drain conduit 406 can direct fluid from the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B out of the conduit system 402 (e.g., via fluid flow from the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B into the exchange conduit 404). In other words, a single drain conduit 406 can be used to direct fluid (including fluid flow from the fourth chamber portion 114B as well as from the second chamber portion 104B) out of the conduit system 402.

[0053] As an example, the exhaust conduit 406 can be fluidically coupled to the exchange conduit 404 via a three-way valve 408 that can be adjusted to change the flow of fluid through the conduit system 402. For example, a first position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid to flow between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B through the exchange conduit 404. A second position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid from the exchange conduit 404 to the exhaust conduit 406 to direct the fluid (e.g., from one side or the other) out of the conduit system 402. In some embodiments, the three-way valve 408 can be transitioned to additional positions. For example, a third position of the three-way valve 408 can direct fluid from the second chamber portion 104B to the exhaust conduit 406 and prevent fluid from flowing between the fourth chamber portion 114B and the second chamber portion 104B and / or between the fourth chamber portion 114B and the exhaust conduit 406. The fourth position of three-way valve 408 can direct fluid from fourth chamber portion 114B to drain conduit 406 and prevent fluid from flowing between second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B and / or between second chamber portion 104B and drain conduit 406. In certain embodiments, control system 234 is communicatively coupled to three-way valve 408 and can operate three-way valve 408 based on parameters determined by sensor 240, for example.

[0054] The conduit system 402 may additionally or alternatively include a drain system 410 that can drain fluid from the conduit system 402 based on pressure. For example, the drain system 410 can include a regulating valve 412 that can be opened or activated when the pressure of the fluid in the conduit system 402 exceeds a first threshold pressure (e.g., a lower threshold pressure) and / or a pressure relief valve 414 that can be opened or activated once the pressure of the fluid in the conduit system 402 exceeds a second threshold pressure (e.g., a higher threshold pressure).

[0055] The conduit system 402 may also be fluidly coupled to the process fluid source 248 and may be configured to receive process fluid from the process fluid source 248. To illustrate, the illustrated conduit system 402 includes a process fluid valve 416 that may be configured to direct the process fluid into the exchange conduit 404 based on, for example, fluid pressure in the conduit system 402 and / or via the control system 234.

[0056] Although the pump system 100 includes two cylinders 102 and 112, and the two cylinders are fluidly coupled to each other to transfer process fluid between the second chamber portion 104B and the fourth chamber portion 114B, in additional or alternative embodiments, the pump system 100 may include any suitable number of cylinders. In such embodiments, each cylinder includes a piston disposed therein to divide the chamber of the cylinder, and the piston is movable within its respective cylinder to pressurize the working fluid in one chamber portion of each cylinder. Simultaneously, the process fluid fills the other chamber portion of each cylinder, and the movement of the piston within its respective cylinder causes the process fluid to be transferred between the cylinders.

[0057] Furthermore, although the present disclosure primarily discusses directing the working fluid into the first and third chamber portions 104A, 114A, and directing the process fluid into the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B, in additional or alternative embodiments, the working fluid may be directed into any suitable portion (e.g., the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B) of the first and / or second cylinders 102, 112. Accordingly, the process fluid may be directed into different portions (e.g., the first and third chamber portions 104A, 114A) of the first and / or second cylinders 102, 112 to facilitate movement of the pistons 106, 116 and prevent foreign particles from entering the cylinders 102, 112.

[0058] Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, movement of the pistons 106, 116 (e.g., driven by the drive shaft 148) in opposite directions 138, 140 causes process fluid to flow between the cylinders 102, 112, in additional or alternative embodiments, the pistons 106, 116 may move in different directions, and process fluid may flow between the cylinders 102, 112 during such movement of the pistons 106, 116. For example, the first piston 106 may move in a first direction to reduce the volume of the first chamber portion 104A and increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B. Simultaneously, the second piston 116 may move in a second direction transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the first direction to increase the volume of the third chamber portion 114A and reduce the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B. This movement of the first and second pistons 106, 116 to increase the volume of the second chamber portion 104B and reduce the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B may cause process fluid to flow from the fourth chamber portion 114B to the second chamber portion 104B. Thus, arranging pistons 106, 116 to adjust the volume of second chamber portion 104B relative to the volume of fourth chamber portion 114B may cause process fluid to flow between second chamber portion 104B and fourth chamber portion 114B regardless of the orientation of the movement directions of pistons 106, 116 relative to each other.

[0059] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method 450 for operating the pump system 100. In some embodiments, the operations of the method 450 can be performed by a single entity, such as the control system 234. Additionally or alternatively, different operations of the method 450 can be performed by different entities. It should be noted that the method 450 can be performed in a manner different from that shown. For example, additional operations can be performed, the operations shown can be performed in a different manner, none of the operations shown can be performed, and / or any of the operations shown can be performed in a different order.

[0060] In block 452, a process fluid is directed into the first and second cylinders via a conduit system (e.g., either of conduit systems 202 and 402). For example, the process fluid may be directed to fill the second chamber portion 104B of the first cylinder 102 and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B of the second cylinder 112 to increase the pressure within the second chamber portion 104B and / or the pressure within the fourth chamber portion 114B to a threshold pressure. Filling the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B with the process fluid may prevent foreign particles from entering the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B, thereby preventing the foreign particles from mixing with the working fluid.

[0061] In block 454, a drive shaft (e.g., drive shaft 148) is operated to pressurize the working fluid in the first cylinder and direct the process fluid from the second cylinder to the first cylinder via the conduit system. For example, the drive shaft 148 can be driven in the second direction 140 to drive the first piston 106 to move in the second direction 140, thereby reducing the volume of the first chamber portion 104A and increasing the volume of the second chamber portion 104B. The reduction in the volume of the first chamber portion 104A causes the working fluid in the first chamber portion 104A to be pressurized. In addition, the movement of the drive shaft 148 in the second direction 140 drives the second piston 116 to move in the second direction 140 to increase the volume of the third chamber portion 114A and reduce the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B. The reduction in the volume of the fourth chamber portion 114B causes the process fluid (e.g., a mixture of process fluid and working fluid) to flow out of the fourth chamber portion 114B and enter the conduit system. The conduit system then directs the process fluid to the second chamber portion 104B, which has increased in volume.

[0062] In block 456, the drive shaft is operated to pressurize the working fluid in the second cylinder and direct the process fluid from the first cylinder to the second cylinder via the conduit system. That is, the drive shaft is driven in a first direction to drive the second piston to move in the first direction, thereby reducing the volume of the third chamber portion and increasing the volume of the fourth chamber portion. The reduction in the volume of the third chamber portion causes the working fluid in the third chamber portion to be pressurized. The movement of the drive shaft in the first direction also drives the first piston to move in the first direction, increasing the volume of the first chamber portion and decreasing the volume of the second chamber portion. The reduction in the volume of the second chamber portion causes the process fluid (e.g., a mixture of process fluid and working fluid) to flow out of the second chamber portion and into the conduit system, which then directs the process fluid to the increased volume of the fourth chamber portion. Therefore, during the movement of the drive shaft to pressurize the working fluid in the first and second cylinders, both the second and fourth chamber portions remain filled with process fluid (e.g., to pressurize the second and fourth chamber portions 104B, 114B to a threshold pressure).

[0063] At block 458, the amount of process fluid in the conduit system is adjusted. In some embodiments, the process fluid is directed out of the conduit system. For example, the process fluid is directed out of the conduit system at set time intervals. Additionally or alternatively, the process fluid is directed out of the conduit system based on a determined parameter, which may indicate potential contamination of the process fluid and / or pressure buildup within the conduit system. In either of these examples, directing the process fluid out of the conduit system can improve the utility of the process fluid and / or extend the useful life of the conduit system.

[0064] In additional or alternative embodiments, a process fluid is directed into the conduit system. For example, the process fluid is directed into the conduit system to maintain fluid pressure within the conduit system, which can ensure that the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B are sufficiently filled with process fluid to prevent foreign particles from entering the cylinders 102 and 112. To this end, a valve (e.g., process fluid valve 250, process fluid valve 416) is operated to direct process fluid from the process fluid source 248 into the conduit system. For example, the process fluid can be directed out of the conduit system at a scheduled time period, thereby reducing the fluid pressure within the conduit system (e.g., to below a threshold pressure that allows the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B to be sufficiently filled with process fluid). In response, the valve is opened to direct process fluid from the process fluid source 248 into the conduit system, thereby replenishing the process fluid previously directed out of the conduit system to increase the fluid pressure within the conduit system (e.g., to above a threshold pressure that allows the second chamber portion 104B and / or the fourth chamber portion 114B to be sufficiently filled with process fluid). Thus, the process fluid is directed into the conduit system to maintain desired operation of the pump system 100 .

[0065] As used in this application, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the use of the phrases "at least one of," "one or more of," "and / or," and variations thereof, are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation with respect to any and all possible combinations of the associated listed items. For example, each of the expressions "at least one of X, Y, and Z," "at least one of X, Y, or Z," "one or more of X, Y, and Z," "one or more of X, Y, or Z," and "X, Y, and / or Z" may mean any of the following: 1) X, but not Y and not Z; 2) Y, but not X and not Z; 3) Z, but not X and not Y; 4) X and Y, but not Z; 5) X and Z, but not Y; 6) Y and Z, but not X; or 7) X, Y, and Z.

[0066] In addition, unless otherwise clearly stated, the terms "first", "second", "third" etc. are intended to distinguish the specific nouns (e.g., elements, conditions, nodes, modules, activities, operations, etc.) that they modify. Unless otherwise clearly stated, the use of these terms is not intended to represent any type of order, grade, importance, chronological order or hierarchy of the modified nouns. For example, "first X" and "second X" are intended to specify two "X" elements, which are not necessarily subject to any order, grade, importance, chronological order or hierarchy of the two elements. In addition, as described in the application, "at least one of ... and "one or more of ... " can be represented using "(a plurality of)" nomenclature (e.g., one (or more) elements).

[0067] Each exemplary embodiment disclosed herein is included to present one or more distinct features. However, all disclosed embodiments are designed to work together as part of a single, larger system or method. Composite embodiments are expressly contemplated by this disclosure, combining multiple previously discussed features from different exemplary embodiments into a single system or method.

[0068] The one or more advantages described herein are not intended to indicate that any embodiment described herein necessarily provides all of the advantages, or that all embodiments of the present disclosure necessarily provide any of the advantages. Those skilled in the art may determine numerous other changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and / or modifications, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass all such changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and / or modifications, while falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pump system comprising: First cylinder; a first piston disposed within the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder, wherein the first piston is configured to be movable in a first direction within the first cylinder to draw working fluid into the first chamber portion, and to be movable in a second direction within the first cylinder to pressurize the working fluid and discharge the working fluid from the first chamber portion; Second cylinder block; a second piston disposed within the second cylinder to define a third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion within the second cylinder, wherein the second piston is configured to be movable in a third direction within the second cylinder to draw working fluid into the third chamber portion, and is configured to be movable in a fourth direction within the second cylinder to pressurize the working fluid and discharge the working fluid from the third chamber portion; and A conduit system fluidly couples the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion to each other, wherein the conduit system is configured to direct fluid flow between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion.

2. The pump system according to claim 1, wherein The first piston is configured to be movable in the second direction within the first cylinder to direct fluid from the second chamber portion to the fourth chamber portion through the conduit system, and the second piston is configured to be movable in the fourth direction within the second cylinder to direct fluid from the fourth chamber portion to the second chamber portion through the conduit system.

3. The pump system of claim 1, comprising a drain system for draining fluid from the conduit system.

4. The pump system according to claim 3, wherein: The drain system includes a regulating valve configured to be actuatable to drain fluid from the conduit system based on a fluid pressure within the conduit system exceeding a threshold pressure. 5 . The pump system of claim 1 , comprising a valve configured to direct process gas from a process gas source into the conduit system.

6. The pump system according to claim 5, wherein: The fluid guided between the second chamber part and the fourth chamber part through the conduit system comprises the process gas.

7. The pump system of claim 5, wherein: The valve is configured to introduce the process gas into the conduit system at a pressure higher than a pressure of air in an external environment surrounding the pump system.

8. The pump system of claim 1, wherein: The first cylinder and the second cylinder have equal cross-sectional areas.

9. The pump system of claim 8, wherein: The first piston and the second piston have equal cross-sectional areas.

10. The pump system of claim 1, wherein: The pump system is a single-stage gas booster pump, wherein the first piston and the second piston are configured to pressurize different working fluid flows.

11. A pump system comprising: First cylinder; a first piston disposed within the first cylinder to define a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion within the first cylinder, wherein the first cylinder is configured to receive a working fluid at the first chamber portion, and the first piston is configured to pressurize the working fluid within the first chamber portion; a second cylinder; and a second piston, the second piston is arranged in the second cylinder body to define a third chamber part and a fourth chamber part in the second cylinder body, wherein the second cylinder body is constructed to be able to receive a working fluid at the third chamber part, the second piston is constructed to be able to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber part, the second chamber part and the fourth chamber part are fluidly connected to each other, and the first piston moves in the first cylinder body to pressurize the working fluid in the first chamber part, the second piston moves in the second cylinder body to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber part, or both, to guide the fluid to flow between the second chamber part and the fourth chamber part.

12. The pump system of claim 11, comprising a conduit system fluidly coupled to the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion.

13. The pump system of claim 12, wherein: The fluid guided between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion through the conduit system comprises a process gas which is introduced into the conduit system at a pressure higher than the pressure of air in the external environment surrounding the pump system.

14. The pump system of claim 12, wherein: The catheter system comprises: a drain conduit configured to drain fluid from the conduit system; and A three-way valve, wherein a first position of the three-way valve is for directing fluid flow between the second chamber portion and the fourth chamber portion, and a second position of the three-way valve is for directing fluid to the exhaust conduit.

15. The pump system of claim 11, comprising a drive shaft coupled to the first piston and the second piston, wherein: The movement of the drive shaft along the first direction can drive the movement of the first piston to pressurize the working fluid in the first chamber part, and can drive the movement of the second piston to draw the working fluid into the third chamber part, and the movement of the drive shaft along the second direction opposite to the first direction can drive the movement of the second piston to pressurize the working fluid in the third chamber part, and can drive the movement of the first piston to draw the working fluid into the first chamber part.

16. The pump system of claim 15, wherein: Movement of the drive shaft along the first direction can drive movement of the second piston to guide fluid from the fourth chamber part to the second chamber part, and movement of the drive shaft along the second direction can drive movement of the first piston to guide fluid from the second chamber part to the fourth chamber part.

17. The pump system of claim 11, wherein: The first piston is configured to pressurize a working fluid flow, the first cylinder is configured to discharge the working fluid flow pressurized by the first piston to the second cylinder, and the second piston is configured to further pressurize the working fluid flow.

18. A catheter system comprising: a first branch configured to be fluidly coupled to a first chamber portion of a first cylinder, the first cylinder including a first piston defining the first chamber portion and a second chamber portion, wherein movement of the first piston within the first cylinder pressurizes a working fluid within the second chamber portion; and a second branch configured to be fluidically coupled to a third chamber portion of a second cylinder, the second cylinder including a second piston defining the third chamber portion and a fourth chamber portion, wherein movement of the second piston within the second cylinder is capable of pressurizing the working fluid within the fourth chamber portion, and the first branch and the second branch fluidically couple the first chamber portion and the third chamber portion to each other.

19. The conduit system of claim 18, further comprising a valve configured to introduce a process fluid into the conduit system at a threshold pressure, and wherein the first branch and the second branch are configured to direct the process fluid to flow between the first chamber portion and the third chamber portion.

20. The catheter system of claim 18, further comprising valves configured to direct fluid away from the first and second branches at a threshold pressure.

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