Explosion-proof motor, pump system and method

Abstract

An explosion-proof motor, pump system, and method are provided, including a motor housing having a circular first end portion spaced from a circular second end portion by a cylindrical wall and a cavity formed within the cylindrical wall between the circular first end portion and the circular second end portion. The circular second end portion is formed by a bell-shaped wall. The circular first end portion and the circular second end portion share a longitudinal axis extending concentrically from the first end portion and the second end portion. The pump housing has a cavity for nesting for rotational movement of a rotor including a plurality of vanes and leaves. The rotor is coupled to a motor shaft of the motor during use. The cavity is further formed by a cylindrical wall, wherein the cylindrical wall has an inner surface and an outer surface such that the outer surface extends longitudinally parallel about the longitudinal axis and the inner surface extends transversely about the longitudinal axis.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications The following application claims priority under 35 U.S. § 119(e) from copending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 445,165, filed February 13, 2023, entitled “EXPLOSION PROOF MOTOR, PUMP SYSTEM, AND METHOD.” The above-identified application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to explosion proof motors, pump systems, and methods thereof, and more particularly to structures, features, and configurations of explosion proof motors and pump assemblies, methods of constructing explosion proof motors and pump assemblies, and methods of operating explosion proof motors and pump assemblies. BACKGROUND

[0003] Fluid transfer pumps move fluid from one location to another. One example includes a pump that is used as a conduit to move fluid, such as fuel, from a reservoir to an internal combustion engine, such as a generator, and other fuel outlets throughout a road, off-road, non-highway vehicle, and the like. Fluid transfer pumps can move fluid from a reservoir to a dispensing nozzle for filling land, sea, or snow vehicles. One example of the construction and operation of such a pump is described in U.S. Patent No. 10,590,939, which is owned by the assignee of the present disclosure. U.S. Patent No. 10,590,939 is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

[0004] Pumps can employ vanes, diaphragms, or other similar structures that rotate or oscillate within the pump via some prime mover, such as an electric motor. The vanes are located in a pump housing that is in fluid communication with an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold.

[0005] The inlet manifold can also be in communication with fuel in a reservoir, while the outlet manifold can also be attached to a hose or other structure that is configured to deliver fuel to another location. When the motor in the pump causes the vanes to rotate, a vacuum is created in the pump housing to cause fuel that is already present in the tank to be drawn through the inlet manifold. The vanes then rapidly push the fuel through the outlet manifold and hose or fuel line for delivery to another location. An electric motor is a suitable device for causing the vanes to rotate within the pump. The motor is also capable of generating enough rotational speed to effectively draw and dispense fluid at a sufficient rate. SUMMARY

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure includes an explosion-proof motor and pump. The motor and pump assembly includes a motor housing having a circular first end portion spaced from a circular second end portion by a cylindrical wall forming a motor housing cavity between the circular first end portion and the circular second end portion within the cylindrical wall, the circular first end portion having an opening for receiving a motor, the circular second end portion formed by a bell-shaped wall. The cylindrical first end portion and the circular second end portion share a longitudinal axis extending concentrically from the first end portion and the second end portion. The motor and pump assembly further includes a pump housing having a pump housing cavity for nesting a pump having a rotor with a plurality of vanes and leaves for rotational movement, the rotor coupled to a motor shaft of the motor during use; and the pump housing cavity is further formed by the cylindrical wall of the motor housing cavity, wherein the cylindrical wall has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the outer surface extends longitudinally parallel about the longitudinal axis, and the inner surface extends laterally about the longitudinal axis.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a motor and pump assembly. The motor and pump assembly has a motor housing having a shroud forming a cavity for positioning a motor therein, the cavity having an opening at a first end for receiving the motor during installation and a bell-shaped wall at a second end; a pump providing delivery of fluid from the pump when rotatably coupled to the motor; a switchboard having a plurality of electrical components for providing power to the motor positioned in the motor housing during use, the switchboard having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface having at least one cavity for supporting the plurality of electrical components therein; a switch arm for activating the motor from an on position to an off position; a sleeve for supporting a locking bolt of a lock on the exterior surface; and a keyhole in the switch arm for passage of the locking bolt to prevent movement of the switch arm from the off position to the on position.

[0008] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a motor and pump arrangement. The motor and pump arrangement has a motor and pump housing defined by a cylindrical cavity having an opening at a first end for receiving a motor, a pump housing, and a pump, such that the pump housing separates the motor from the pump within the motor and pump housing, and a bell-shaped wall at a second end. The pump has a rotor with a plurality of vanes and leaves for rotational movement within a fluid passageway, the rotor coupled to a motor shaft of the motor during use; and the fluid passageway connecting an input passageway to an output passageway, wherein the fluid passageway has a cammed surface for axial movement of the vanes and leaves during rotation of the rotor.

[0009] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a method of assembling an explosion-proof motor pump assembly. The method includes the steps of: providing a motor housing having a circular first end portion spaced from a circular second end portion by a cylindrical wall forming a cavity between the circular first end portion and the circular second end portion within the cylindrical wall, the circular first end portion having an opening for receiving a motor, the circular second end portion formed by a bell-shaped wall; a longitudinal axis aligned concentrically from the first end portion to the second end portion; casting the pump housing with the motor housing, the pump housing having a pump housing with a fluid cavity for nesting a pump having a rotor with a plurality of vanes and leaves for rotational movement, the rotor coupled to a motor shaft of the motor for rotational movement of the pump during use; and providing the cavity formed by the cylindrical wall such that the cylindrical wall has an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the outer surface extends longitudinally parallel about the longitudinal axis and the inner surface extends transversely about the longitudinal axis.

[0010] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes an explosion-proof motor housing for an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly. The explosion-proof motor housing includes: a motor housing formed by a first volume, a second volume, and a third volume, and a first sidewall and a second sidewall; the first volume having a cylindrical wall sized and configured to receive a motor; the second volume having a passageway to the first volume and having a mounting arrangement for a switchboard assembly; the third volume having a passageway to the second volume, the second volume and the third volume having a plurality of openings extending through the second volume and the third volume for facilitating coupling of a plurality of corresponding motor leads extending from the motor to a power supply coupling; wherein the first volume of the motor housing is sized and configured to receive and couple with the motor such that at least a portion of the motor does not contact the cylindrical wall of the first volume or the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the motor housing when the motor is coupled to the motor housing to create an air gap for preventing conductive heat transfer through the cylindrical wall of the motor housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reference to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout the various drawings and in which: Figure 1 is a front left perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly in an unlocked position according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 is a front right perspective view constructed in accordance with another example embodiment; Figure 4is a top plan view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly according to another example embodiment of the disclosure, with the switch plate shown with the electrical switch assembly coupled to the motor housing; Figure 5 is Figure 6 a rear perspective view; Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly in a locked position according to another example embodiment of the disclosure, with the motor housing and switch plate and switch shaft assembly removed to show only the motor, pump, and switch lever; Figure 7 is a side view of a pump assembly according to another example embodiment, with the cover of the switch plate removed to illustrate the internal electronic components; Figure 8 is another perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly; Figure 9 is another perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly; Figure 10 is a side elevational view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly in an unlocked position according to one example embodiment; Figure 11 is a side elevational view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly in a locked position according to another example embodiment; Figure 12 is a side elevational view thereof; Figure 13 is a side elevational view thereof; Figure 14 is a perspective view of a motor housing constructed according to another example embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a motor housing and motor arrangement constructed according to another example embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 16 is another perspective cross-sectional view thereof; Figure 17 is a side elevational cross-sectional view thereof; Figure 18 is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 17 Figure 19 is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 17 Figure 20 is an end view illustrating a pump vane of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly according to another example embodiment; Figure 21 is a perspective view thereof; Figure 22 is a top plan view thereof; Figure 23 is a perspective view thereof; ​​Figure 24 Figure 3 illustrates a top perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 25 Figure 3 illustrates a top perspective view of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0012] Those skilled in the art will realize that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures can be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve the understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, the use of "including", "comprising", "having", "containing", "involving", "characterized by" or variants thereof herein, is used to mean one or more of the listed elements or alternatives exist which have the listed elements, without necessarily excluding other elements. For example, the process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that "comprises" a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but can include other

[0013] Where appropriate, devices and methods aspects have been represented by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Reference is now made to the drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. The present disclosure relates generally to explosion-proof motor and pump systems and methods thereof, and more particularly to features, structures and configurations of explosion-proof motor and pump assemblies, methods of constructing explosion-proof motor and pump assemblies, and methods of operating explosion-proof motor and pump assemblies.

[0015] In Figure 1 In FIG. 1, a pump-facing front perspective view of one embodiment of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly 10 is shown. Externally, the pump assembly 10 features an explosion-proof motor housing or casing 12, an end bell 14, and a pump housing 16, which prevent any sparks or flames from escaping the motor casing 12.

[0016] In one example embodiment, the explosion-proof motor and pump assembly 10 includes a coupling 18 coupled to the rotor 22 and the impeller assembly 22 (see FIG. 2). The coupling 18 is configured to transmit rotational motion from the rotor 22 to the impeller assembly 22. In one example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a shaft coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a belt coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a gear coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a chain coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a magnetic coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a hydraulic coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a pneumatic coupling. In another example embodiment, the coupling 18 is a combination of two or more of the above-mentioned couplings. Figure 20) to form a motor 18 of a pump arrangement 24 that operates to deliver a fluid, such as water or fuel, from a first location to a second location. In one example embodiment, the explosion-proof motor and pump assembly 10 delivers the fluid from a first location comprising a reservoir (not shown) to a second location comprising an internal combustion motor (not shown), such as a generator. In another example embodiment, the pump assembly 10 delivers the fluid from a first location comprising a reservoir through a manifold 26 in fluid communication with the pump arrangement 24, such that the fluid is introduced from a supply or reservoir into an input port 28, through the manifold 26 to an output port 30, and into the second location. In another example embodiment, the input port 28 and the output port 30 are coupled to supply hoses (not shown), respectively, wherein the supply hose to the output port 30 is coupled to a dispensing nozzle (not shown) for filling another tank, such as a tank to an automobile or farm implement, tractor, marine vehicle, all-terrain vehicle, recreational vehicle, and the like. The nozzle to the supply hose is supported by a nozzle sleeve 32 when not in use.

[0017] In the illustrated example embodiment, the pump 10 has a volumetric flow rate between 1 gallon per minute to 16 gallons per minute and typically about 8 gallons per minute. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, after benefiting from the present description and associated drawings, a motor, pump arrangement, and impeller / rotor combination of greater and lesser volumetric flow rates can be used without departing from the scope and claims of the present disclosure.

[0018] In the illustrated example embodiment, the explosion-proof motor and pump assembly 10 is a Class 1 Division 2 assembly that is constructed of cast metal, such as aluminum, and is machined to assemble into a complete assembly with moving parts. In another example embodiment, the assembly is galvanized, painted, or any combination thereof, in whole or in part. In one example embodiment, the motor 18 is powered by a cable (not shown) extending from a power supply coupling 34 in such a way that it maintains a Class 1 Division 2 construction, and the explosion-proof pump assembly 10 is typically between 10 and 11 pounds in weight. Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the weight of the pump assembly can vary.

[0019] In another example embodiment, the explosion-proof motor housing 12 is made of metal, such as an aluminum on steel casting, and is subsequently subjected to machining operations to manufacture the tapered cavity 70. The tapered cavity 70 can also be cast into the housing 12 without any further machining operations.

[0020] As Figure 9As shown in the figures, in this illustrated example embodiment of the present disclosure, the oversized cable gland 37 confers a set of significant advantages. One such advantage is that the manufacturer can paint the finished pump assembly 10 without first attaching the power cable. This eliminates the need for masking and the additional labor of performing that action, and is accomplished by using a cable gland assembly 37 that is large enough to allow the motor lead 48 power supply coupling 34 to pass through. This embodiment also provides additional advantages related to safety and ease of use. For example, the user can remove, service, or modify the attached power cable without removing the switchboard assembly 40. This switchboard assembly 40 forms part of the safety configuration of the motor housing 12 assembly by providing the necessary flame path to enable the explosion-proof motor housing and assembly 10. This ensures that these safety features are not compromised. It also provides the possibility for the manufacturer to make a Class 1 Division 1 rated motor assembly that the customer can choose to use in a Class 1 Division 2 application without having to remove the switchboard assembly 40. Additionally, the functionality of the switch actuator mechanism and electrical switch are not compromised by customer misassembly. For brush-based motor-based devices, the main difference in configuration is in the power supply coupling 34 mechanism.

[0021] In Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated example embodiment of the present disclosure, the pump assembly 10 also includes a removable end cap 36 coupled to the pump housing 16 via fasteners 38. Removal of the end cap 36 allows the user to access the impeller assembly 22, rotor 22, and pump arrangement 24 for maintenance and repair / replacement.

[0022] The explosion-proof motor and pump assembly 10 also includes a switchboard arrangement 40 for enabling the pump assembly 10 to be switched from an on state to an off state motor 18 that rotates the pump arrangement 24 such that the delivery of fluid occurs along the flow path from the input port 28 to the output port 30. The switchboard arrangement 40 receives its power from a supply power cable (not shown) adapted to the power supply coupling 34. The switchboard arrangement 40 includes a lever arm 42 fastened to a switch shaft 44 that is coupled to a position switch 46 that includes a motor lead 48 power supply coupling 34 that passes through the cable gland assembly 37, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present specification and related drawings.

[0023] In this example embodiment, the lead wires 48 in electrical communication with power from the power supply coupling 34 are all mounted to the motor housing 12 and only the mechanical switch lever arm 42 is attached to the switch shaft 44 of the switch board arrangement 40. The motor housing 12 has multiple main volumes, in this example embodiment 3 volumes, with the first volume 12a being a generally cylindrical volume including a cavity in which the motor 18 will reside. The second volume 12b is connected to the first volume 12a and contains the mounting for the switch board arrangement 40 and space for connecting the lead wires 48 to the switch shaft 44 and the motor 12. The third volume 12c is a field wiring compartment or junction box that forms a coupling between the motor lead wires 48 and the power supply coupling 34. The motor lead wires 48 pass through a small opening formed within the motor housing 12 that connects the second volume 12b and the third volume 12c. These lead wires 48 are then sealed and secured between the second volume 12b and the third volume 12c by a sealant material such as epoxy or cement.

[0024] The switch 46 and lead wires 48 reside in a first chamber 50 of the switch board 40, isolated by the switch or lever arm 42 from outside the first chamber 50. In the example embodiment illustrated, the switch shaft 44 extends parallel to the motor shaft 20 and is rotatably connected and / or coupled between the switch 46 and the lever arm 42 when the switch shaft 44 enters from the outside into the first chamber 50. A second chamber 52 is adjacent to the first chamber 50 within the switch board arrangement 40. The second chamber 52 includes a passageway extending from the first chamber 50 for accommodating a wire harness 54 formed of conductive wires from the lead wires 48 connected to the switch 46. A cover 56 of the switch board arrangement 40 is removed in Figure 7 、 Figure 12 and Figure 13 to show the chambers 50, 52 and internal components.

[0025] Within the second chamber 52, the wire harness 54 is coupled to the power supply coupling 34 that passes through the cable gland assembly 37. The configuration and components located within the first chamber 50 and the second chamber 52 form a Class 2 Division 1 explosion-proof assembly, respectively. In one example embodiment, the switch board assembly 40 is removed (see Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) so that the explosion-proof pump assembly 10 can be used with a cover plate (not shown) to form an OEM operation to take advantage of the explosion-proof configuration of the pump arrangement 24 and pump housing 16 as previously discussed and further discussed herein.

[0026] As seen in Figure 6 , operation of the explosion-proof motor and pump assembly 10 can be regulated by a locking assembly 58 formed by the lock 60, the sleeve 62 molded or cast into the switch board arrangement 40, and the small hole 64 in the lever arm 42. Figure 10The locking assembly 58 is shown in the unlocked position, where in this example embodiment the lock 60 includes a bolt 66 disengaged from the aperture 64 of the lever arm 42 and the body 68 of the lock 60, allowing the lever arm to have rotational capability, and the initiation of rotation activates the switch 46, motor 18, and pump arrangement 24. In Figure 11 In another example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the locking assembly 58 is shown with the bolt 66 passing through the aperture 64, thereby prohibiting rotation of the lever arm 42, and thus prohibiting activation of the pump arrangement 24 and motor 18.

[0027] In the prior art, conventional nozzle pumps have been designed to lock the actual nozzle, which results in congestion around the pump, hindering the user’s operation, and limiting access to the bolts and fasteners, lock loss, etc. Advantageously, the locking assembly 58 described and shown in the present disclosure opens up the area around the pump to facilitate maintenance and access. The lock 60 also advantageously remains in the sleeve 62 when in the unlocked position, thereby preventing lock loss or misplacement after use, which often occurs in conventional pump systems.

[0028] Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the pump housing 16, motor 18, and pump arrangement 24 is illustrated in the example embodiment of Figure 17 The pump housing 16 is advantageously configured to support a variety of types, shapes, and sizes of motors 18 for unrestricted applications. Such a configuration of the pump housing 16 also allows for the use of many different brands and types of replacement motors when the original motor or replacement motor wears out or fails to operate. This increases the manufacturer’s ability to source motors from multiple suppliers to improve the robustness of the supply chain, but does not allow the customer to replace the motor or motor components. The configuration of the pump housing 16 allows for controlled egress of heat from the motor 18, leaving the surface of the housing 16 relatively cool to the touch compared to the outer surface of the pump motor 18. This provides a safety benefit when compared to conventional motor configurations where the end user can directly access the exterior parts of the motor 12.

[0029] As shown in Figures 15 to 17 The main assembly 90 contributes to the high efficiency heat exchange and versatility of the motor 18 of the pump 10 as one factor. The main assembly 90 is formed by coupling the motor housing 12 to the pump housing 16, as shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17The motor housing 12 includes a hollow cavity 70 formed substantially cylindrically about a central axis A-A. The central axis A-A of the cavity 70 is concentrically aligned with the central axis of the motor 18 and motor shaft 20. An air gap 72 is formed between the motor 18 and the motor housing 12. The air gap 72 is formed about the cylindrical perimeter of the motor 18 such that the motor 18 is not in physical contact with the motor housing 12, thereby preventing conductive heat transfer between the motor 18 and the housing 12. Advantageously, this keeps the surface temperature of the motor 12 significantly lower than conventional designs and creates a safety benefit for the user.

[0030] The frustoconical shape 80 of the cavity 70 about the axis A-A also aids in the dissipation of heat. As Figure 17 As illustrated in FIG. 3, the motor 18 of constant radius R is shown to have a central axis that shares and is concentric with the axis A-A of the housing 12. A cylindrical taper 74 is formed concentrically about the interior wall 76 of the cavity 70 about the axis A-A such that the first end 12A of the housing 12 has a radius r1 that extends to the cavity wall 76 and the second end 12B of the housing has a radius r3 that extends to the cavity wall 76, where in this example embodiment of the disclosure, r3 is greater than r1. A radius r2 is taken anywhere between the first end 12A and the second end 12B such that r3 is greater than r2, r2 is greater than r1. In one example embodiment, the cylindrical taper 74 is substantially linear between the first end 12A and the second end 12B. In other words, the thickness in the air gap 72 at the first end 12A (as designated by t1) is less than the thickness in the air gap 72 at the second end 12B (designated by t2). Thus, the frustoconical interior wall 76 of the cavity promotes convective heat transfer away from the motor 18 and the housing 12 and toward the pump housing 16.

[0031] The air gap 72 also allows for different sizes of the motor 18 such that different pumps can be used for different applications and can be easily replaced to different brands and physical sizes than previous and subsequent motors. In the illustrated example embodiment, the air gap 72 is substantially constant in a plane parallel to the end bell 14 between the motor 18 and the housing 12. The air gap in this region can be spatially increased to accommodate a longitudinally longer motor without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0032] Referring again to Figure 17illustrated, the main assembly 90 is partially formed at the second end 12B by a cylindrical step 78 in the motor housing 12 that has a lateral diameter that is increased from the lateral diameter that surrounds the motor cavity 70. In one example embodiment, this step 78 includes a cylindrical flange 82 that sits on a cylindrical nest 84 formed or cast into the pump housing 16. A cylindrical slot 86 is formed between the cylindrical nest 84 and the flange 82 such that one or more cylindrical retainers 88 are fastened to the forward face 92 of the motor 18 with fasteners 93 as illustrated in Figure 15 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 . Extending from the step 78 along the flange 82 is an internal thread 94A for mating and connecting with an external thread 94B formed on the cylindrical nest 84. When the cylindrical slot 86 is reduced to the thickness of the retainers 88, the pump housing 16 is secured to the motor housing 12 to form the main assembly 90.

[0033] The main assembly 90 is formed by inserting the motor 18 into the motor housing 12 to form the air gap 72 around the cylindrical perimeter and end of the motor 18. The retainers 88, which can be of selectable thickness and cylindrical or linear shape, are attached to the face 92 of the motor 18 with fasteners 93. The pump housing 16 is advanced such that the external thread 94B engages the internal thread 94A of the flange 82 and the pump housing 16 is rotated relative to the motor housing 12 until the cylindrical slot 86 is reduced to the thickness of the retainer(s) 88, thereby forming a tight connection 95 between the housings to form the main assembly 90. This connection 95 forming the main assembly 90 draws convective heat from the air gap 72 and conductive heat from the motor 18 face 92 through the retainers 88 such that the desired heat transfer from the motor cavity 12 into the pump housing 16 and then into the fluid being pumped when the pump 10 is in operation occurs. In one example embodiment, the main assembly 90 contains ribs and / or additional features to help facilitate efficient heat transfer.

[0034] The pump housing 16 includes a main bore 98 for coupling with the motor shaft 20 and rotor cavity 99, thereby providing pressure relief for the pump assembly 10. The pump housing 16 advantageously supports the internal components of the pump assembly 10 without the use of a traditional straight walled bore or a rear bearing assembly. Further, in one example embodiment of the present disclosure, the motor housing 12 and the pump housing 16 comprise die cast housings, which allows for the addition of other desired features in their manufacture. Traditionally, motor and pump housings feature a stator in the form of a tube, which does not allow for the addition of additional details in their manufacture as the stator frame is the outer housing and completes the magnetic circuit. The pump assembly 24 of the present disclosure does not utilize a stator frame and therefore allows for the addition of additional features such as inlets and passages as shown in Figures 20 to 23 .

[0035] Reference is now made to Figures 20 to 23, the pump arrangement 24 is shown without end cap 36. The pump arrangement 24 includes rotor 22, movable vanes 23 positioned within respective lobes 25, bypass valve 27, cammed channel-type contoured fluid passageway 29, bypass passageway 31, motor shaft rotor key 33, and cammed surface 35. Motor shaft rotor key 33 couples rotor 22 to motor shaft 20 such that rotation of motor 18 causes rotor 22 to rotate at the same time and rate as motor 18 itself. During rotation of rotor 22, vanes 23 move in and out of their respective lobes 25 until contacting cammed surface 35 of channel-type contoured fluid passageway 29. The vanes move outward to push water when the passageway is wide 35A and contract when the passageway is narrow 35B, thereby advancing fluid from output port 28 along the flow path to input port 30 (see arrow C).

[0036] When fluid pressure is too high, bypass valve 27 opens and allows a percentage of the total flow to return to the inlet side of the pump. Bypass valve 27 allows fluid to be delivered without operating pump arrangement 24 and motor 18.

[0037] Figures 24 to 25 Another example embodiment of an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly is illustrated, including both technical and ornamental features of another example embodiment of a motor housing 12 according to the present disclosure in perspective view thereof.

[0038] In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present teachings.

[0039] The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any one or more elements of any of the aspects presented in this disclosure should not be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims. The present disclosure is defined solely by the appended claims including any and all equivalents as allowed by relevant and applicable law and any modification actually made based on the application(s) during the pendency of this application or patent.

[0040] Furthermore, in this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc., may be used only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” “including,” “contains,” “containing,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes, has, contains, or contains a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further constraints, an element beginning with “comprises…,” “has…,” “includes…,” or “contains…” does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes, has, contains, or contains that element. Unless expressly stated otherwise herein, the terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more. The terms “substantially,” “basically,” “roughly,” “about,” or any other form thereof are defined as close as to what is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In one non-limiting embodiment, the term is defined as within, for example, 10%, in another possible embodiment within 5%, in yet another possible embodiment within 1%, and in yet another possible embodiment within 0.5%.

[0041] As used herein, the term “connection” is defined as a temporary or permanent link or contact, though not necessarily direct and not necessarily mechanical. A device or structure “constructed” in a certain way is constructed at least in that way, but may also be constructed in ways not listed. Unless otherwise specified, the term “integral” as used herein means constructed in such a way that separation would require the destruction of a part or component of a part.

[0042] Those skilled in the art, upon reviewing the accompanying drawings and / or specification of this disclosure, will recognize that this disclosure may include one or more embodiments (e.g., E1, E2, ... E...). n Furthermore, each embodiment E may have multiple parts A1, B1, C1…Z n These parts (without further description) can be used in conjunction with other embodiments E n The combination of embodiments (e.g., A1, C1) or the absence of elements initially associated with one or all embodiments E n The associated parts, or any combination thereof and / or embodiments. It should also be recognized that Embodiment E nOnly one portion (e.g., Al) or a lesser number of portions (e.g., Bl, Cl) of any embodiment or combination of embodiments can be included (e.g., A1) or a lesser number of portions (e.g., Bl, Cl) that are described or shown in the specification and / or drawings in an unenumerated or unillustrated manner, respectively.

[0043] To the extent that no material is specified for any of the foregoing embodiments or parts thereof, it is to be understood that a person of ordinary skill in the art, having the benefit of the present disclosure and drawings, will know suitable materials for the intended purpose.

[0044] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or the meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are explicitly recited in each claim. Rather, inventive subject matter can lie in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, wherein each claim independently represents an invention over any preceding claim or combination of claims.

Claims

1. A motor and pump assembly, comprising: A motor housing, the motor housing including a circular first end separated from a circular second end by a cylindrical wall, a motor housing cavity formed within the cylindrical wall between the circular first end and the circular second end, the circular first end having an opening for receiving a motor, and the circular second end being formed by a bell-shaped wall; The cylindrical first end and the circular second end share a longitudinal axis extending concentrically from the first end and the second end; A pump housing, the pump housing comprising a housing cavity for nesting a pump having a rotor, the rotor comprising a plurality of blades and vanes for rotational motion, the rotor being coupled to a motor shaft of a motor during use; and The motor housing cavity is further formed by the cylindrical wall of the motor housing cavity, wherein the cylindrical wall has an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the outer surface extends longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the inner surface extends laterally about the longitudinal axis.

2. The motor and pump assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The inner surface forms a truncated conical cavity.

3. The motor and pump assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The inner wall surface includes a tapering wall thickness from the first end of the cylinder to the second end of the cylinder.

4. The motor and pump assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The motor housing cavity forms an air gap between the motor and the inner wall surface of the motor housing to dissipate the heat of the motor during operation.

5. The motor and pump assembly of claim 1, further comprising a switchboard cavity, wherein, The motor housing and the switch plate cavity are formed from a single metal casting.

6. The motor and pump assembly of claim 1, further comprising a pump housing that separates the placement of the motor within the motor housing from the pump, thereby forming an explosion-proof motor-pump assembly.

7. The motor and pump assembly of claim 1 further includes a cable gland assembly for providing a passage for power cables to a plurality of electrical components within a switchboard cavity, the switchboard cavity being closed by a switchboard cover to collectively form an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly.

8. A motor and pump assembly, comprising: A motor housing, the motor housing including a shield forming a cavity for positioning a motor therein, the cavity having an opening at a first end for receiving the motor during installation and a bell-shaped wall at a second end; A pump that, when rotatably coupled to a motor, provides delivery of fluid from the pump; A switchboard including a plurality of electrical components for supplying power to a motor positioned in the motor housing during use, the switchboard having an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface having at least one cavity therein for supporting the plurality of electrical components; A switch arm for activating the motor from an on position to an off position; A sleeve for supporting the locking bolts of a lock on the outer surface; as well as A small hole, located in the switch arm, is provided for the passage of the locking bolt to prevent the switch arm from moving from the off position to the on position.

9. The motor and pump assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The motor housing and the inner surface of the switch plate are formed from a single metal casting.

10. The motor and pump assembly of claim 8, further comprising a pump housing that separates the placement of the motor within the motor housing from the pump, thereby forming an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly.

11. The motor and pump assembly of claim 9, further comprising a pump housing that separates the placement of the motor within the motor housing from the pump, thereby forming an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly.

12. The motor and pump assembly of claim 8, further comprising a cable gland assembly for providing a passage of power cables to the plurality of electrical components within the cavity, the cavity being closed by a switch cover to collectively form an explosion-proof motor assembly.

13. The motor and pump assembly of claim 8, further comprising a motor.

14. The motor and pump assembly of claim 8, wherein, The pump is formed by a pump housing, which is formed by a fluid passage for supporting the rotational movement of the pump's rotor, the fluid passage also including a cam-like surface for the axial movement of the rotor's blades and vanes during its rotation.

15. A motor and pump arrangement comprising: A motor and pump housing defined by a cylindrical cavity having an opening at a first end and a bell-shaped wall at a second end, the opening for receiving a motor, a pump housing, and a pump, such that the pump housing separates the motor from the pump within the motor and pump housing; The pump, having a rotor comprising a plurality of blades and vanes for rotational movement within a fluid passage, the rotor being coupled to the motor shaft of the motor during use; and The fluid passage connects the input passage to the output passage, wherein the fluid passage includes a cam-like surface for axial movement of the blades and vanes during the rotation of the rotor.

16. The motor and pump assembly of claim 15, further comprising a bypass valve positioned between the input passage and the output passage.

17. The motor and pump assembly of claim 15, further comprising a pump housing having a fluid passage for supporting the rotor and an inlet channel in fluid communication with the fluid passage and the inlet passage, and the pump housing further comprising an outlet channel in fluid communication with the fluid passage and the outlet passage.

18. A method for assembling an explosion-proof motor pump assembly, comprising the following steps: A motor housing is provided, the motor housing including a circular first end separated from a circular second end by a cylindrical wall, a cavity being formed within the cylindrical wall between the circular first end and the circular second end, the circular first end having an opening for receiving a motor, and the circular second end being formed by a bell-shaped wall; The longitudinal axis is concentrically aligned from the first end to the second end; A pump housing is cast together with the motor housing. The pump housing has a pump outer shell with a fluid cavity for nesting the pump. The pump includes a rotor with a plurality of blades and vanes for rotational motion. The rotor is coupled to the motor shaft of the motor for the rotational motion of the pump during use. as well as The cavity is provided by the cylindrical wall, such that the cylindrical wall has an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the outer surface extends longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the inner surface extends laterally about the longitudinal axis.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of forming the inner cavity into a truncated conical cavity.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of tapering the inner wall surface from the first end to the cylindrical second end.

21. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of forming an air gap having the cavity between the inner wall surface of the motor and the motor housing to dissipate heat from the motor during operation.

22. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of providing a switchboard cavity, wherein, The motor housing and the switch plate cavity are formed from a single metal casting.

23. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of providing a pump housing that separates the placement of the motor within the motor housing from the pump, thereby forming an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly.

24. The method of claim 18, further comprising the step of providing a cable gland assembly to form a pathway for power cables to a plurality of electrical components within a switchboard cavity, the switchboard cavity being closed by a switchboard cover to collectively form an explosion-proof motor and pump assembly.

25. An explosion-proof motor housing for explosion-proof motors and pump assemblies, comprising: A motor housing having a first cavity and a second cavity, the first cavity being formed by a first sidewall and a second sidewall; The second cavity includes a cylindrical wall, the cylindrical wall being sized and configured to receive a motor; The second cavity has a passage to the first cavity and has a mounting arrangement for the switchboard assembly; and The first cavity has multiple openings to facilitate the connection of motor leads extending from the motor to a power supply and a power switch.

26. The explosion-proof motor housing for explosion-proof motors and pump assemblies according to claim 25, wherein, The second cavity for nesting the motor housing is sized and configured to receive and connect to the motor such that when the motor is connected to the motor housing, at least a portion of the motor does not contact the cylindrical wall of the second cavity or the first and second sidewalls of the motor housing, thereby creating an air gap to prevent conductive heat transfer through the cylindrical wall of the motor housing.

27. The explosion-proof motor housing for explosion-proof motors and pump assemblies according to claim 25, wherein, The second cavity of the motor housing also includes a cylindrical flange to help connect the motor to the motor housing.

28. The explosion-proof motor housing for explosion-proof motors and pump assemblies according to claim 25, wherein, The motor is separated from the first and second sidewalls of the motor housing, such that the air gap is formed at least in the space between the motor and the first and second sidewalls.

29. The explosion-proof motor housing for explosion-proof motors and pump assemblies according to claim 28, wherein, The air gap formed is larger at the first sidewall than at the second sidewall.

30. The explosion-proof motor housing for explosion-proof motors and pump assemblies according to claim 25, wherein, The motor housing is formed by pressure casting.

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