A multi-air-pump low-power-consumption series-parallel air path switching type vacuum adsorption device
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-06-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-11
AI Technical Summary
第一,单个微型真空泵的性能存在固有限制:若追求大流量,则极限负压较低;若追求高负压,则流量较小,用户在不同使用场景下对流量和负压的需求不同,单一性能无法同时满足快速抽气和深度真空的双重需求
与现有技术相比,本发明一种多气泵低功耗串并联气路切换式真空吸附装置具有以下有益效果,
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Figure CN122543972A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of vacuum adsorption technology, and more specifically, to a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel gas path switching vacuum adsorption device. Background Technology
[0002] In the field of household vacuum equipment (such as vacuum storage boxes, vacuum sealers, vacuum breast pumps, etc.), a miniature vacuum pump is usually used to evacuate the sealed cavity to achieve negative pressure adsorption or vacuum preservation. However, existing technologies have the following problems: First, the performance of a single micro vacuum pump has inherent limitations: if a large flow rate is pursued, the ultimate negative pressure is low; if a high negative pressure is pursued, the flow rate is small. Users have different requirements for flow rate and negative pressure in different application scenarios, and a single performance cannot simultaneously meet the dual needs of rapid pumping and deep vacuum.
[0003] Secondly, the traditional solution uses two solenoid valves to control the gas path switching. When the solenoid valve is rated at 3.7V, the operating current is usually greater than or equal to 450mA, and each working cycle must last for at least 10 seconds. In some working conditions, it even needs to work continuously until the end of the entire working cycle. This results in high power consumption, which seriously affects the endurance of battery-powered household vacuum equipment. At the same time, as the gas flow rate demand increases (such as from 3L / min to 5L / min), the current and size of the solenoid valve must at least double, which is not conducive to the miniaturization of the equipment.
[0004] Third, the existing solution lacks the ability to flexibly switch between series and parallel gas paths, and cannot dynamically adjust the gas path structure according to the gas extraction stage to achieve the optimized process of "rapid gas extraction first, followed by deep vacuum".
[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device with multiple air pumps. It achieves air path switching by driving a rack and pinion assembly with a micro geared motor, enabling flexible configuration of dual air pumps in series and parallel with extremely low power consumption and extremely short switching time, while also integrating a pressure relief function. Summary of the Invention
[0006] The problem with the prior art that this application addresses is: This invention provides a low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device with multiple air pumps. A miniature geared motor drives a piston assembly to move within a cylinder, changing the air path connection method to achieve parallel (flow superposition), series (ultimate negative pressure increase), and pressure relief functions of two or more air pumps. This device meets the vacuum requirements of different application scenarios in a low-power and fast-response manner.
[0007] The solution to the technical problem of this invention is: A low-power series-parallel air-path switching vacuum adsorption device with multiple air pumps is provided, comprising a main housing, an adsorption base matched and connected to the bottom of the main housing, and a first air pump, a second air pump, and an air-path switching assembly disposed inside the main housing. The air-path switching assembly includes a cylinder body, a first piston rod and a second piston rod extending into the cylinder body, and a first motor for driving the first piston rod and the second piston rod to reciprocate. The cylinder body is provided with a first air chamber and a second air chamber, and the cylinder body is provided with a first air nozzle, a second air nozzle, a third air nozzle, and a fourth air nozzle, wherein the second air nozzle connects the first air chamber and the second air chamber. The first piston rod is movably disposed in the first air chamber for selectively opening or blocking the air path between the first air chamber and the second air chamber, and for opening or closing the first air nozzle. The second piston rod is movably disposed in the second air chamber for selectively opening or blocking the air path between the second air nozzle and the external environment, and for opening or closing the second air chamber. The system includes an air passage between the first air chamber and the adsorption base; a first main air nozzle and a second main air nozzle are respectively provided on the adsorption base; the suction nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the second main air nozzle through a first pipeline; the outlet nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the third air nozzle through a second pipeline; the first air nozzle is connected to the first main air nozzle through a third pipeline; the suction nozzle of the second air pump is connected to the second air nozzle through a fourth pipeline; and an air passage switch rod or one-way valve plate is provided at the fourth air nozzle; the first motor is drivenly connected to the first piston rod and the second piston rod, and is used to drive the first piston rod and the second piston rod to move synchronously to a first position, a second position, or a third position, wherein, in the first position, the air passage switching component configures the first air pump and the second air pump in a parallel air passage state; in the second position, the air passage switching component configures the first air pump and the second air pump in a series air passage state; and in the third position, the air passage switching component is configured in a depressurization state.
[0008] Preferably, the transmission connection structure between the first motor and the first piston rod and the second piston rod is a rack and pinion transmission structure, a cam transmission structure, a connecting rod transmission structure, or an eccentric wheel transmission structure. When a rack and pinion transmission structure is used, the first piston rod and the second piston rod are provided with a rack structure at one end of the first motor, and a first sealing ring and a first sealing gasket are provided at the other end of the first piston rod; a second sealing ring and a second sealing gasket are provided at the other end of the second piston rod; under the drive of the first motor, the first piston rod and the second piston rod move synchronously in opposite directions.
[0009] Preferably, the first sealing gasket is used to seal the first air nozzle in the second position; the second sealing gasket is used to seal the fourth air nozzle in the first position.
[0010] Preferably, in the first position: the second piston rod blocks the communication between the first air chamber and the second air chamber, while keeping the first air nozzle in a conductive state; the fourth air nozzle is in a conductive state; the suction nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the second main unit air nozzle, the discharge nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the third air nozzle and exhausts air to the outside through the second air chamber and the fourth air nozzle; the suction nozzle of the second air pump is connected to the second air nozzle, and is connected to the first main unit air nozzle through the first air chamber and the first air nozzle; the first air pump and the second air pump simultaneously evacuate the main unit sealing cavity, forming a parallel air path.
[0011] Preferably, in the second position: the first piston rod blocks the first air nozzle and simultaneously blocks the communication between the first air chamber and the second air chamber; after the second piston rod, along with the air circuit switch rod, operates, it blocks the fourth air nozzle through the air circuit switch rod; the suction nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the second main unit air nozzle, and the discharge nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the third air nozzle, allowing gas to enter the second air chamber; the suction nozzle of the second air pump is connected to the second air nozzle, drawing gas from the second air chamber; the gas discharged by the first air pump is drawn in by the second air pump and compressed again, forming a series air circuit.
[0012] Preferably, in the third position: the first piston rod and the second piston rod move to make the fourth air nozzle open to the external environment; external air enters the air path switching assembly and the main unit sealing cavity through the open air nozzle to achieve pressure relief.
[0013] Preferably, the first air pump and the second air pump are any one of a micro diaphragm pump, a micro piston pump, or a micro turbo pump; the working cycle of the first motor driving the first piston rod and the second piston rod to move to the target position each time is less than or equal to 200 milliseconds; the first motor is in a zero-power maintenance state when not in operation.
[0014] Preferably, the first motor has a no-load current of less than or equal to 70mA and a load current of less than or equal to 200mA at a rated voltage of 3.7V.
[0015] Preferably, the system further includes a main control circuit board, a rechargeable battery assembly, and an air pump cover plate disposed on the upper part of the first air pump and the second air pump; the main control circuit board controls the first motor to switch the first piston rod and the second piston rod to the first position, the second position, or the third position according to the preset adsorption requirements or the negative pressure value detected in real time, and controls the start and stop of the first air pump and the second air pump; the main control circuit board is also configured to: control the air path switching component to be in the first position in the initial stage of air extraction, and quickly extract air in parallel; when the negative pressure reaches the first threshold, control the air path switching component to switch to the second position, and continue to extract air in series to achieve a higher ultimate negative pressure.
[0016] Preferably, the fourth air nozzle of the cylinder block is provided with a one-way valve plate; the one-way valve plate allows gas to be discharged unidirectionally from the second air chamber to the external environment, preventing external gas backflow; it also includes an independent pressure relief air circuit module, the independent pressure relief air circuit module includes a second motor and a second rack and pinion piston rod, used to independently control the opening and closing of the pressure relief air nozzle.
[0017] The technical effects achieved by this application in solving the technical problem are as follows: Compared with the prior art, the multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device of the present invention has the following advantages: (1) Low power consumption: The micro geared motor has a working cycle of ≤200ms, no-load current ≈70mA, and load current <200mA, which is much lower than that of the solenoid valve solution (≥450mA and continuously powered). After the switch is completed, the motor is in a zero power consumption state, which greatly saves energy and extends the battery life of the battery-powered equipment.
[0018] (2) Fast response: The gas path switching is completed within 200ms, and the user is almost unaware of it. The gas extraction process is continuous and smooth.
[0019] (3) Flexible configuration: It can realize parallel (large flow), series (high negative pressure), parallel first and then series (optimized process) and pressure relief function as needed, and adapt to a variety of usage scenarios.
[0020] (4) Small size and high integration: The integrated design of the rack and pinion assembly and the cylinder avoids the dispersed arrangement of multiple solenoid valves, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the equipment.
[0021] (5) High scalability: It supports the series and parallel combination of two, three or even more air pumps to meet different performance requirements. Attached Figure Description
[0022] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device according to the present invention.
[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the explosion state structure of a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel gas path switching vacuum adsorption device according to the present invention.
[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device according to the present invention.
[0025] Figure 4 This is another schematic diagram of the exploded state structure of a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel gas path switching vacuum adsorption device of the present invention.
[0026] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the cylinder body in a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device of the present invention.
[0027] In the picture: Main unit housing 11; main control circuit board 12; air pump cover 13; rechargeable battery assembly 14; adsorption base 15; fourth pipe 151; second pipe 152; third pipe 153; first air pump 16; second air pump 17; first motor 18; first piston rod 181; second piston rod 182; second sealing ring 1821; second sealing gasket 1822; cylinder body 183; first air chamber 1831; second air chamber 1832; first air nozzle 1834; second air nozzle 1835; fourth air nozzle 1836. Detailed Implementation
[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.
[0029] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining the invention and are not intended to limit the invention.
[0030] Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0031] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed" to another component, it can be directly on the other component or it can be in a middle component. When a component is said to be "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or it may be in a middle component.
[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.
[0033] The terminology used herein in the specification of this invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0034] The following detailed description of some embodiments of the present invention is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.
[0035] Please see Figures 1 to 5The present invention discloses a multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device 1, comprising a main housing 11, an adsorption base 15 matched and connected to the bottom of the main housing 11, and a first air pump 16, a second air pump 17, and an air path switching assembly disposed inside the main housing 11; the air path switching assembly includes a cylinder body 183, a first piston rod 181 and a second piston rod 182 extending into the cylinder body 183, and a first motor 18 for driving the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 to reciprocate; the cylinder body 183 is provided with a first air chamber 1831 and a second air chamber 1832, and the cylinder body 183... The device is equipped with a first air nozzle 1834, a second air nozzle 1835, a third air nozzle 1833, and a fourth air nozzle 1836. The second air nozzle 1835 connects the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832. A first piston rod 181 is movably disposed within the first air chamber 1831, used to selectively open or close the air passage between the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832, and to open or close the first air nozzle 1834. A second piston rod 182 is movably disposed within the second air chamber 1832, used to selectively open or close the passage between the second air nozzle 1835 and the external environment. The air passage and the air passage between the second air chamber 1832 and the first air chamber 1831; the adsorption base 15 is respectively provided with a first main air nozzle 156 and a second main air nozzle 155; the suction nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the second main air nozzle 155 through a first pipe 154; the outlet nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the third air nozzle 1833 through a second pipe 152; the first air nozzle 1834 is connected to the first main air nozzle 156 through a third pipe 153; the suction nozzle of the second air pump 17 is connected to the second air nozzle 1835 through a fourth pipe 151; and also includes the air passage provided in the... The fourth air nozzle 1836 has an air circuit switch rod 2823 or a one-way valve plate; the first motor 18 is drivenly connected to the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182, and is used to drive the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 to move synchronously to a first position, a second position, or a third position. In the first position, the air circuit switching component configures the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 in a parallel air circuit state; in the second position, the air circuit switching component configures the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 in a series air circuit state; and in the third position, the air circuit switching component is configured in a depressurization state.
[0036] This application simultaneously comprises a main housing 11, an adsorption base 15 matched and connected to the bottom of the main housing 11, and a first air pump 16, a second air pump 17, and an air path switching assembly disposed inside the main housing 11. The air path switching assembly includes a cylinder body 183, a first piston rod 181 and a second piston rod 182 extending into the cylinder body 183, and a first motor 18 for driving the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 to reciprocate. The cylinder body 183 is provided with a first air chamber 1831 and a second air chamber 1832, and the cylinder body 183 is provided with a first air nozzle 1834, a second air nozzle 1835, a third air nozzle 1833, and... The fourth air nozzle 1836, wherein the second air nozzle 1835 connects the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832; the first piston rod 181 is movably disposed within the first air chamber 1831, for selectively opening or blocking the air passage between the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832, and for opening or closing the first air nozzle 1834; the second piston rod 182 is movably disposed within the second air chamber 1832, for selectively opening or blocking the air passage between the second air nozzle 1835 and the external environment, and for opening or blocking the air passage between the second air chamber 1832 and the first air chamber 1831; the adsorption base 1 The first air nozzle 156 and the second air nozzle 155 are respectively provided on the 5th. The suction nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the second air nozzle 155 through the first pipe 154. The discharge nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the third air nozzle 1833 through the second pipe 152. The first air nozzle 1834 is connected to the first air nozzle 156 through the third pipe 153. The suction nozzle of the second air pump 17 is connected to the second air nozzle 1835 through the fourth pipe 151. It also includes an air circuit switch rod 2823 or a one-way valve plate disposed at the fourth air nozzle 1836. The first motor 18 is connected to the first piston rod 181 and the second piston. The rod 182 is a transmission connection used to drive the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 to move synchronously to a first position, a second position, or a third position. In the first position, the gas path switching component configures the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 in a parallel gas path state; in the second position, the gas path switching component configures the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 in a series gas path state; and in the third position, the gas path switching component is configured in a depressurization state. In practical applications, it has advantages such as low power consumption, fast response, flexible configuration, and small size, and is particularly suitable for battery-powered portable vacuum equipment, possessing good market prospects and practical value.
[0037] In some other embodiments, the transmission connection structure between the first motor 18 and the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 is a rack and pinion transmission structure, a cam transmission structure, a connecting rod transmission structure, or an eccentric wheel transmission structure. When a rack and pinion transmission structure is used, the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 are provided with a rack structure at one end of the first motor 18, and a first sealing ring 1811 and a first sealing gasket 1812 are provided at the other end of the first piston rod 181; a second sealing ring 1821 and a second sealing gasket 1822 are provided at the other end of the second piston rod 182; under the drive of the first motor 18, the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 move synchronously in opposite directions.
[0038] The first sealing gasket 1812 is used to seal the first air nozzle 1834 in the second position; the second sealing gasket 1822 is used to seal the fourth air nozzle 186 in the first position.
[0039] In the first position: the second piston rod 182 blocks the communication between the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832, while keeping the first air nozzle 1834 in a conductive state; the fourth air nozzle 1836 is in a conductive state; the suction nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the second main unit air nozzle 155, and the exhaust nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the third air nozzle 1833 and exhausts to the outside through the second air chamber 1832 and the fourth air nozzle 1836; the suction nozzle of the second air pump 17 is connected to the second air nozzle 1835, and is connected to the first main unit air nozzle 156 through the first air chamber 1831 and the first air nozzle 1834; the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 simultaneously evacuate the main unit sealing cavity, forming a parallel air path.
[0040] In the second position: the first piston rod 181 blocks the first air nozzle 1834, and simultaneously blocks the connection between the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832; after the second piston rod 182, along with the air circuit switch rod 2823, operates, it blocks the fourth air nozzle 1836 through the air circuit switch rod 2823; the suction nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the second main unit air nozzle 155, and the outlet nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the third air nozzle 1833, allowing gas to enter the second air chamber 1832; the suction nozzle of the second air pump 17 is connected to the second air nozzle 1835, drawing gas from the second air chamber 1832; the gas discharged by the first air pump 16 is drawn in by the second air pump 17 and compressed again, forming a series air circuit.
[0041] In the third position: the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 move to make the fourth air nozzle 1836 connected to the external environment; external air enters the air path switching assembly and the main unit sealing cavity through the connected air nozzle to achieve pressure relief.
[0042] The first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 are any one of a micro diaphragm pump, a micro piston pump, or a micro turbo pump; the working cycle of the first motor 18 driving the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 to move to the target position is less than or equal to 200 milliseconds; the first motor 18 is in a zero power consumption state when not in operation.
[0043] The first motor 18 has a no-load current of less than or equal to 70mA and a load current of less than or equal to 200mA at a rated voltage of 3.7V.
[0044] It also includes a main control circuit board 12, a rechargeable battery assembly 14, and an air pump cover plate 13 covering the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17. The main control circuit board 12 controls the first motor 18 to switch the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182 to the first position, the second position, or the third position according to the preset adsorption requirements or the negative pressure value detected in real time, and controls the start and stop of the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17. The main control circuit board 12 is also configured to: control the air path switching component to be in the first position in the initial stage of air extraction, and quickly extract air in parallel; when the negative pressure reaches the first threshold, control the air path switching component to switch to the second position, and continue to extract air in series to achieve a higher ultimate negative pressure.
[0045] The cylinder body 183 is equipped with a one-way valve at the fourth air nozzle 1836; the one-way valve allows gas to be discharged from the second air chamber 1832 to the external environment in one direction, preventing the backflow of external gas; it also includes an independent pressure relief air circuit module, which includes a second motor 19 and a second rack and pinion piston rod 191, for independently controlling the opening and closing of the pressure relief air nozzle. Example
[0046] This embodiment provides a low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device with multiple air pumps: I. Overall Structure This device includes: a first air pump 16, a second air pump 17, an air path switching component, and a control unit.
[0047] The air circuit switching assembly includes: cylinder block 183, first piston rod 181, second piston rod 182, first motor 18, and transmission gear.
[0048] II. Cylinder Block Structure The cylinder block 183 is injection molded from high-strength engineering plastics (such as POM or ABS). In some other embodiments, it may also be made of metal materials, including stainless steel, aluminum alloy, etc.
[0049] The cylinder block 183 has a first air chamber 1831 and a second air chamber 1832 arranged side by side. The cylinder block 183 has four air nozzles. First air nozzle 1834: Located at the far end of the first air chamber 1831, used to connect to the first interface of the main unit's sealing cavity; Second air nozzle 1835: Located in the middle of cylinder body 183, connecting the first air chamber 1831 and the second air chamber 1832; Third air nozzle 1833: Located on one side of the second air chamber 1832, used to connect to the air outlet of the first air pump 16; Fourth air nozzle 1836: Located at the distal end of the second air chamber 1832, used for intake or exhaust.
[0050] In addition, the cylinder block 183 is provided with guide grooves for sliding the first piston rod 181 and the second piston rod 182.
[0051] III. Piston Assembly Structure The first piston rod 181 includes a first rack piston rod, a first sealing ring 1811, and a first sealing gasket 1812. One side of the first rack piston rod has a rack structure that meshes with a transmission gear, and the other end has an annular groove for mounting the first sealing ring 1811. The first sealing gasket 1812 is fixed to the end of the first rack piston rod and is used to seal the first air nozzle 1834.
[0052] The second piston rod 182 includes a second rack piston rod, a second sealing ring 1821, and a second sealing gasket 1822. One side of the second rack piston rod has a rack structure that meshes with a transmission gear (opposite to the rack of the first rack piston rod, forming a reverse motion), and the other end has an annular groove for mounting the second sealing ring 1821. The second sealing gasket 1822 is fixed to the end of the second rack piston rod and is used to seal the fourth air nozzle 1836.
[0053] The end of the second piston rod 182 has a groove-shaped structure, which facilitates the flow of gas into the second gas chamber 1832 through the second pipe 152 and out from the fourth gas nozzle 1836.
[0054] IV. Driver Components The first motor 18 is a miniature DC geared motor with a rated voltage of 3.7V, a no-load current ≤70mA, and a load current ≤200mA. A transmission gear is fixed on the motor's output shaft, which meshes with both the first and second rack and pinion piston rods. When the motor rotates, the two rack and pinion piston rods move synchronously in opposite directions: one moves forward while the other moves backward.
[0055] The first motor 18 operates for ≤200ms per cycle, driving the piston assembly to the target position. After switching, the motor is powered off. Due to the self-locking characteristics between the gears and rack or the motor's own holding torque, the piston assembly remains in the target position without continuous power supply, achieving zero-power maintenance.
[0056] V. Gas Path Connections The intake nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the second interface of the main unit's sealed cavity through a pipeline; the exhaust nozzle of the first air pump 16 is connected to the third nozzle 1833 of the cylinder block 183 through a pipeline.
[0057] The intake nozzle of the second air pump 17 is connected to the second air nozzle 1835 of the cylinder block 183 via a pipeline; the exhaust nozzle of the second air pump 17 directly exhausts or is connected to a muffler.
[0058] The first valve 1834 of the cylinder block 183 is connected to the first interface of the main unit sealing cavity through a pipeline.
[0059] VI. Detailed Explanation of Working Status (a) Parallel gas path state (first position) When the control unit issues a parallel air extraction command, the first motor 18 rotates counterclockwise, driving the first piston rod 181 to move to the right and the second piston rod 182 to move to the left, reaching the first position.
[0060] at this time: The first sealing gasket 1812 of the first piston rod 181 moves away from the first air nozzle 1834, and the first air nozzle 1834 is in a conductive state; the first sealing ring 1811 ensures the sealing performance between the first air chamber 1831 and the first piston rod 181 in the rack direction. The second piston rod 182 moves to a position where the second sealing gasket 1822 is close to the fourth air nozzle 1836, blocking the conduction between the second air nozzle 1835 and the second air chamber 1832. The air circuit switch rod 2823 moves away from the position of the fourth air nozzle 1836, so that the fourth air nozzle 1836 is in a conductive state. The second sealing ring 1821 ensures the sealing performance of the second air chamber 1832 and the second piston rod 182 in the rack direction. Gas path: The first air pump 16 draws air from the sealed cavity through the second interface of the main unit's sealed cavity; the first air pump 16 discharges gas into the third air nozzle 1833, into the second air chamber 1832, and then discharges it to the outside through the fourth air nozzle 1836.
[0061] The second air pump 17 draws gas through the second air nozzle 1835. Since the second piston rod 182 blocks the communication with the first air chamber 1831, but the first air chamber 1831 is connected to the main unit sealing cavity through the first air nozzle 1834, the second air pump 17 actually draws air from the main unit sealing cavity.
[0062] In summary, when two vacuum pumps simultaneously draw air from the sealed cavity of the main unit, the gas flow rates are superimposed (4L / min for a single pump, approximately 8L / min in total), and the ultimate negative pressure remains unchanged (-65kPa for a single pump, approximately -65kPa in total), thus achieving rapid air extraction.
[0063] (ii) Series gas path status (second position) When the control unit issues a series suction command, the first motor 18 rotates clockwise, driving the first piston rod 181 to move to the left and the second piston rod 182 to move to the right, reaching the second position.
[0064] at this time: The first sealing gasket 1812 of the first piston rod 181 seals the first air nozzle 1834, blocking the communication between the first air chamber 1831 and the main unit sealing chamber.
[0065] The second sealing gasket 1822 of the second piston rod 182 is away from the fourth air nozzle 1836; the air circuit switch rod 2823 blocks the exhaust of the fourth air nozzle 1836. In actual design, a sealing ring can be set at the end of the air circuit switch rod 2823 to ensure the sealing of the fourth air nozzle 1836.
[0066] Gas path: The first air pump 16 draws air from the sealed cavity through the second interface of the main unit's sealed cavity; the first air pump 16 discharges the gas into the third air nozzle 1833, which then enters the second air chamber 1832.
[0067] The second air pump 17 draws gas through the second air nozzle 1835. Since the first air nozzle 1834 is sealed and the second air nozzle 1835 is connected to the second air chamber 1832, the second air pump 17 draws gas from the second air chamber 1832 (i.e., the gas discharged by the first air pump 16).
[0068] The second air pump 17 compresses the gas a second time and then discharges it from its outlet.
[0069] In summary, when two vacuum pumps are connected in series, the gas flow rate remains constant (4L / min for a single pump, approximately 4L / min in total), but the ultimate negative pressure is superimposed (-65kPa for a single pump, theoretically reaching over -90kPa after series connection), achieving a deep vacuum.
[0070] (III) Depressurization state (third position) When the control unit issues a pressure relief command or the evacuation operation is completed and the sealed chamber needs to be opened, the first motor 18 drives the two piston assemblies to move to the third position.
[0071] This position is typically designed such that the first sealing gasket 1812 of the first piston rod 181 is away from the first air nozzle 1834, the second sealing gasket 1822 of the second piston rod 182 is away from the fourth air nozzle 1836, and the sealing ring on the air circuit switch rod 2823 is also away from the fourth air nozzle 1836.
[0072] At this time, outside air enters the second air chamber 1832 through the fourth air nozzle 1836, then enters the first air chamber 1831 through the second air nozzle 1835, and finally enters the main unit's sealing chamber through the first air nozzle 1834, balancing the internal and external pressures and achieving pressure relief. The user can then easily open the sealing chamber cover.
[0073] VII. Control Methods This embodiment also provides an optimized control method to realize a two-stage pumping process of "first parallel rapid pumping, then series deep vacuum": Step S101: Receive the air extraction start command.
[0074] Step S102: Control the first motor 18 to drive the piston assembly to move to the first position (parallel state).
[0075] Step S103: Start the first air pump 16 and the second air pump 17 to quickly evacuate the sealed cavity in parallel.
[0076] Step S104: The negative pressure value inside the sealed cavity is detected in real time by a pressure sensor or by detecting the vacuum pump current in real time to determine the corresponding negative pressure value.
[0077] Step S105: When the negative pressure value is detected to reach the first preset threshold (e.g., -45kPa), first control the two vacuum pumps to stop working (or keep working but switch instantly).
[0078] Step S106: Control the first motor 18 to drive the piston assembly to move to the second position (in series), with a switching time ≤200ms.
[0079] Step S107: Restart both vacuum pumps (or continue running) to continue pumping air in series.
[0080] Step S108: When the negative pressure value in the sealed cavity reaches the second preset threshold (e.g., -85kPa), stop pumping.
[0081] Step S109: When it is necessary to open the sealing cavity, control the first motor 18 to drive the piston assembly to move to the third position (pressure relief state).
[0082] This two-stage control strategy combines the advantages of high flow rate in parallel and high negative pressure in series, significantly shortening the overall pumping time while ensuring the final vacuum level.
[0083] Example 2 (Variant with independent pressure relief system) The main difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is the addition of an independent pressure relief gas path module.
[0084] In some application scenarios, it is necessary to independently control the pressure relief function while the main gas path switching module remains operational.
[0085] In this embodiment, a second motor 19, a second rack and pinion piston rod 191, and a pressure relief nozzle are added to the original air path switching module.
[0086] When the system is operating (evacuating air), the second motor 19 drives the second rack and pinion piston rod 191 to move to the position of the sealed pressure relief nozzle to prevent outside air from entering. When the system needs to depressurize, the second motor 19 drives the second rack and pinion piston rod 191 to disengage from the pressure relief nozzle, allowing outside air to enter the sealed chamber and thus achieving pressure relief.
[0087] The advantages of this design are that the main gas path switching module can be maintained in parallel or series, while the pressure relief is independently controlled, making it suitable for vacuum equipment that requires rapid and repeated opening and closing (such as vacuum food storage boxes).
[0088] Within the scope of the present invention, the following alternatives also exist: Alternatives to the transmission mechanism: The rack and pinion transmission mechanism used in this case can be replaced by a cam mechanism, linkage mechanism, or eccentric wheel mechanism in some implementations, as long as it can drive the two piston assemblies to move synchronously and in opposite directions. These alternatives also fall within the protection scope of this invention.
[0089] Single motor multi-output solution: The same function can be achieved by using a micro geared motor to drive two independent piston assemblies through a worm gear or lead screw mechanism.
[0090] Air pump type alternative: The air pump can be any of the following: micro diaphragm pump, micro piston pump, micro turbine pump or peristaltic pump, and the air path switching principle of the present invention is also applicable.
[0091] Manual switching solution: In low-cost applications, a manual knob or lever can be used instead of a micro geared motor to manually drive the piston assembly and achieve series-parallel switching. Although automation is sacrificed, low-power pneumatic path switching is still achieved.
[0092] Position detection solution: Hall effect sensors or microswitches can be installed on the cylinder block to detect the position of the piston assembly, achieving closed-loop control and ensuring proper switching. In practical applications, corresponding control can also be achieved by controlling the motor speed and operating time. Compared with existing technologies, the multi-pump, low-power series-parallel gas path switching vacuum adsorption device 1 of the present invention can be widely used in various household vacuum equipment, including but not limited to: Vacuum-sealed storage box: Enables rapid air extraction and deep preservation.
[0093] Vacuum sealing machine: adaptable to packaging bags of different thicknesses and materials.
[0094] Vacuum breast pump: The suction strength and rhythm are adjustable.
[0095] Vacuum compression bag air pump: Quickly removes air, saving storage space.
[0096] This device has advantages such as low power consumption, fast response, flexible configuration, and small size. It is particularly suitable for battery-powered portable vacuum equipment and has good market prospects and practical value.
[0097] The embodiments of the present invention described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device with multiple air pumps, characterized in that: The device includes a main housing, an adsorption base that is matched and connected to the bottom of the main housing, and a first air pump, a second air pump, and an air path switching assembly disposed inside the main housing. The air path switching assembly includes a cylinder body, a first piston rod and a second piston rod extending into the cylinder body, and a first motor for driving the first piston rod and the second piston rod to reciprocate. The cylinder body is provided with a first air chamber and a second air chamber, and the cylinder body is provided with a first air nozzle, a second air nozzle, a third air nozzle, and a fourth air nozzle, wherein the second air nozzle connects the first air chamber and the second air chamber. The first piston rod is movably disposed in the first air chamber and is used to selectively open or close the air path between the first air chamber and the second air chamber, as well as to open or close the first air nozzle. The second piston rod is movably disposed in the second air chamber and is used to selectively open or close the air path between the second air nozzle and the external environment, as well as the air path between the second air chamber and the first air chamber. The system includes a first main air nozzle and a second main air nozzle on the adsorption base. The suction nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the second main air nozzle via a first pipe. The outlet of the first air pump is connected to the third air nozzle via a second pipe. The first air nozzle is connected to the first main air nozzle via a third pipe. The suction nozzle of the second air pump is connected to the second air nozzle via a fourth pipe. The system also includes an air path switch rod or one-way valve plate located at the fourth air nozzle. The first motor is driven by the first piston rod and the second piston rod, and is used to drive the first piston rod and the second piston rod to move synchronously to a first position, a second position, or a third position. In the first position, the air path switching component configures the first air pump and the second air pump in a parallel air path state. In the second position, the air path switching component configures the first air pump and the second air pump in a series air path state. In the third position, the air path switching component is configured in a depressurization state.
2. The multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The transmission connection structure between the first motor and the first piston rod and the second piston rod is a rack and pinion transmission structure, a cam transmission structure, a connecting rod transmission structure, or an eccentric wheel transmission structure. When a rack and pinion transmission structure is used, the first piston rod and the second piston rod are provided with a rack structure at one end of the first motor, and a first sealing ring and a first sealing gasket are provided at the other end of the first piston rod. The other end of the second piston rod is provided with a second sealing ring and a second sealing gasket. Under the drive of the first motor, the first piston rod and the second piston rod move synchronously in opposite directions.
3. The multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The first sealing gasket is used to seal the first air nozzle in the second position; the second sealing gasket is used to seal the fourth air nozzle in the first position.
4. The multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: In the first position: the second piston rod blocks the connection between the first air chamber and the second air chamber, while keeping the first air nozzle in a conductive state; the fourth air nozzle is in a conductive state; the suction nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the second main unit air nozzle, and the discharge nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the third air nozzle and exhausts air to the outside through the second air chamber and the fourth air nozzle; the suction nozzle of the second air pump is connected to the second air nozzle, and is connected to the first main unit air nozzle through the first air chamber and the first air nozzle; the first air pump and the second air pump simultaneously evacuate the main unit sealing cavity, forming a parallel air path.
5. A multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1 or 4, characterized in that: In the second position: the first piston rod blocks the first air nozzle and simultaneously blocks the connection between the first air chamber and the second air chamber; after the second piston rod, along with the air circuit switch rod, operates, it blocks the fourth air nozzle through the air circuit switch rod; the suction nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the second main unit air nozzle, and the discharge nozzle of the first air pump is connected to the third air nozzle, allowing gas to enter the second air chamber; the suction nozzle of the second air pump is connected to the second air nozzle, drawing gas from the second air chamber; the gas discharged by the first air pump is drawn in by the second air pump and compressed again, forming a series air circuit.
6. A multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1 or 4, characterized in that: In the third position: the first piston rod and the second piston rod move to make the fourth air nozzle open to the external environment; external air enters the air path switching assembly and the main unit sealing cavity through the open air nozzle to achieve pressure relief.
7. The multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first air pump and the second air pump are any one of a micro diaphragm pump, a micro piston pump, or a micro turbo pump; the working cycle of the first motor driving the first piston rod and the second piston rod to move to the target position each time is less than or equal to 200 milliseconds; the first motor is in a zero-power maintenance state when not in operation.
8. The multi-pump low-power series-parallel gas path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The first motor has a no-load current of less than or equal to 70mA and a load current of less than or equal to 200mA at a rated voltage of 3.7V.
9. The multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a main control circuit board, a rechargeable battery assembly, and an air pump cover plate covering the first air pump and the second air pump; the main control circuit board controls the first motor to switch the first piston rod and the second piston rod to the first position, the second position, or the third position according to the preset adsorption requirements or the negative pressure value detected in real time, and controls the start and stop of the first air pump and the second air pump; the main control circuit board is also configured to: control the air path switching component to be in the first position in the initial stage of air extraction, and quickly extract air in parallel; when the negative pressure reaches the first threshold, control the air path switching component to switch to the second position, and continue to extract air in series to achieve a higher ultimate negative pressure.
10. A multi-pump, low-power series-parallel air path switching vacuum adsorption device as described in claim 1 or 9, characterized in that: The cylinder block is equipped with a one-way valve plate at the fourth air nozzle, which can only discharge gas. The one-way valve plate allows gas to be discharged from the second air chamber to the external environment in one direction, preventing the backflow of external gas. It also includes an independent pressure relief air circuit module, which includes a second motor and a second rack and pinion piston rod, for independently controlling the opening and closing of the pressure relief air nozzle.