vane pump

Abstract

A vane pump comprising: a rotor (1) rotatable about an axis of rotation (R) with guide slots (2), a stroke structure (4) with an inner circumferential surface (4a) surrounding the rotor (1), several vanes (3) movably guided back and forth in the guide slots (2), a first end wall (5) and a second end wall, a pumping chamber radially bounded by the outer circumferential surface of the rotor (1) and the inner circumferential surface (4a) of the stroke structure (4) and axially bounded by the first end wall (5) and the second end wall, and divided into pumping cells (6), each bounded by two vanes (3) adjacent in the circumferential direction about the axis of rotation (R), and a suction kidney (7) opening into the pumping chamber for drawing in fluid and a pressure kidney (8) opening into the pumping chamber for discharging the fluid, wherein, during a rotation of the rotor (1), each pumping cell (6) connects a suction area with the suction kidney (7),The pressure kidney (8) each has a pressure region and a separation region extending in the direction of rotation between the suction region and the pressure region, separating the suction region from the pressure region, and the pressure kidney (8) has a renal process (9) at its anterior end in the direction of rotation, which extends in the opposite direction of rotation towards the suction kidney (7) and is narrower than the pressure kidney (8), the separation region extending from a posterior end in the direction of rotation of the suction kidney to an anterior end of the renal process.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a vane pump with at least one flow channel. The at least one flow channel comprises a suction region with a suction kidney, a pressure region with a pressure kidney, which follows the suction kidney in the direction of rotation, wherein the pressure kidney has a kidney extension at its front end in the direction of rotation, which extends counter to the direction of rotation toward the suction kidney and is narrower than the pressure kidney, and a separation region that extends between the suction region and the pressure region. The separation region can extend, in particular, from a rear end of the suction kidney in the direction of rotation to a front end of the kidney extension.

[0002] Vane pumps with a kidney extension attached to a pressure kidney, which extends opposite to the pump's rotational direction and is narrower than the pressure kidney itself, are state of the art. Document DE 10 200 40 30 473 B4 is cited as an example. This document discloses a double-stroke vane pump, with a pre-compression notch attached to the pressure kidney to enable pre-compression of the fluid. This enables an improvement in the acoustic behavior of the vane pump. However, these improvements are not sufficient, so further improvements in the acoustic behavior and pressure pulsations of the vane pump are required.

[0003] It is an object of the invention to further improve the acoustic behavior.

[0004] A vane pump with reduced pressure pulsation is desirable.

[0005] The task may be to improve the acoustic behavior of a vane pump by special design of the renal process and / or special design of the inner circumferential surface of the stroke structure or to reduce pressure pulsations.

[0006] It is advantageous if the improvement in acoustic behavior is achieved through geometries that are easy to manufacture, for example the renal process.

[0007] In another aspect, the invention aims at improved acoustic behavior while maintaining high efficiency of the vane pump.

[0008] According to the invention, a vane pump is provided which comprises: a rotor rotatable about a rotational axis and having guide slots, a lifting structure with an inner circumferential surface surrounding the rotor, a plurality of vanes which are guided to move back and forth in the guide slots, a first end wall and a second end wall, a delivery chamber which is delimited radially by the outer circumferential surface of the rotor and the inner circumferential surface and axially by the first end wall and the second end wall and is divided into delivery cells, each of which is delimited by two vanes adjacent in the circumferential direction around the rotational axis, a suction kidney opening into the delivery chamber for sucking in fluid and a pressure kidney opening into the delivery chamber for expelling the fluid.As the rotor rotates, the conveyor cells pass through a suction zone, where the suction kidney is located, a pressure zone, where the pressure kidney is located, and a separation zone extending in the direction of rotation between the suction zone and the pressure zone, which separates the suction zone from the pressure zone. The conveyor cells expand in the suction zone and contract in the pressure zone.

[0009] At its front end in the direction of rotation, the pressure kidney has a renal process that extends counter to the direction of rotation toward the suction kidney and is narrower than the pressure kidney. The separation area can extend, in particular, from a rear end of the suction kidney in the direction of rotation to a front end of the renal process. The renal process has a flow cross-section that is smaller than the flow cross-section of the pressure kidney adjoining it in the direction of rotation. The pressure kidney thus continues counter to the direction of rotation, i.e., in the circumferential direction toward the suction kidney, with a reduced flow cross-section.

[0010] If the delivery cells were to directly overlap the pressure kidney, pressure equalization between the respective delivery cell and the high-pressure area would occur almost instantaneously, resulting in periodic pressure pulsations corresponding to the number of delivery cells. Sudden pressure equalization is accompanied by high pressure peaks, which are reflected acoustically in cracking noises. The kidney process improves the pressure equalization process, particularly by evening out the pressure equalization.

[0011] If the pressure in the high pressure area is greater than the pressure in a delivery cell running into the overlap with the renal process, the pressure in the respective delivery cell already increases in the area of ​​the renal process. However, because the renal process has a small flow cross-section compared to the actual pressure kidney, the pressure increase is flatter than would be the case if the same delivery cell ran from the separation area directly into the overlap with the full cross-section of the pressure kidney. The same applies if the pressure in the high pressure area is lower than the pressure of a delivery cell running into the overlap with the renal process. The slender renal process counteracts an abrupt pressure increase. The pressure equalization or pressure increase is evened out and thus improved. The pressure pulsation is dampened. Cavitation noise and damage are avoided or at least reduced by smoother pressure equalization.

[0012] For the dimensions of the vanes and conveyor cells on the one hand and the renal process on the other hand, each measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation of the rotor, one or more of the following design rules may apply: According to an advantageous first design rule, at least one vane is located between the suction kidney and the kidney extension of the pressure kidney following the suction kidney in the direction of rotation at every rotational angle of the rotor. It is expedient if at least one vane is located in the separation zone at every rotational angle of the rotor, fluidically separating the suction kidney from the kidney extension of the pressure kidney. This prevents short circuits between the pressure and suction zones. In the separation zone, the respective vane defines an axial sealing gap with its respective end wall and a radial sealing gap with the lifting structure, thereby separating the suction zone from the kidney extension.

[0013] According to a second design rule, it is advantageous if a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation between the suction kidney and the kidney extension following in the direction of rotation is so large that each of the conveying cells is fluidically separated from the suction kidney and the kidney extension of the pressure kidney when passing through the separation area in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor by means of the two wings delimiting the respective conveying cell.

[0014] For each of the conveying cells, it can be the case that, in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor, an entire conveying cell is located in the separation zone and overlaps neither with the kidney extension of the pressure kidney nor with the suction kidney. It is advantageous if the smallest distance between the suction kidney and the kidney extension of the pressure kidney, measured in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis, is at least as large as, preferably greater than, the width of each of the conveying cells measured at the same radial height in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis.

[0015] By fulfilling the second design rule, a short circuit between the pressure area and the suction area is particularly reliably avoided, thus achieving a high level of efficiency with simultaneously improved acoustic behavior of the vane pump.

[0016] On the other hand, according to a third design rule, it is expedient if for each of the vanes there is at least one rotational angle position of the rotor in which a delivery cell delimited by the respective vane trailing already overlaps with the kidney extension of the pressure kidney, while a delivery cell delimited by the same vane leading still overlaps with the suction kidney.

[0017] In further developments of the invention, a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation between the suction kidney and the kidney extension of the pressure kidney is at least one or at least two or at least three widths of each of the vanes greater than a width of each of the vane cells measured at the same radial height in the circumferential direction. It is expedient if the rotor can be rotated with respect to each of the conveyor cells into a rotational angular position in which the vane delimiting the respective conveyor cell at the trailing end projects beyond the suction kidney in the direction of rotation and the same conveyor cell does not yet overlap with the kidney extension of the pressure kidney. The rotor is preferablyEach of the conveyor cells can be rotated into a rotational angular position in which the vane bordering the respective conveyor cell at the trailing end protrudes beyond the suction kidney in the direction of rotation, and the vane bordering the same conveyor cell at the leading end does not yet overlap with the kidney extension of the pressure kidney. In particular, during a rotational movement of the rotor, the trailing vane of the respective conveyor cell can move out of the overlap with the suction kidney before the leading vane of the same conveyor cell moves into the overlap with the kidney extension of the pressure kidney.

[0018] In advantageous embodiments, for each of the conveyor cells, the respective conveyor cell completely contains the kidney extension of the pressure kidney in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor and thereby overlaps with the pressure kidney. The dimensioning can be carried out in particular such that the trailing vane of the respective conveyor cell has not yet reached the overlap with the kidney extension of the pressure kidney during a rotational movement of the rotor when the leading vane of the same conveyor cell already overlaps with the pressure kidney.

[0019] It is advantageous if the respective conveying cell only reaches its largest cell volume when, during a rotational movement of the rotor, the conveying cells assume a largest cell volume in a rotational angular position in which the respective conveying cell has already moved into overlap with the renal extension of the pressure kidney. During a rotational movement of the rotor, the conveying cells can assume a largest cell volume in a rotational angular position in which the respective conveying cell has moved out of overlap with the suction kidney. These two features can be implemented individually or, preferably, in combination. The respective feature can be implemented by a corresponding design of the inner circumferential surface of the lifting structure.The inner circumferential surface of the lifting structure can in particular be designed such that the enlargement in the direction of rotation behind the suction kidney only begins when the respective delivery cell is already in the overlap with the kidney process, so that during the enlargement fluid can flow from the pressure region via the kidney process into the delivery cell. If the second design rule is met, the inner circumferential surface of the lifting structure can in particular be designed such that the increase in volume of the respective delivery cell when passing through the separation region initially levels off over a small rotation angle range, the cell volume remains constant, for example, and the cell volume only increases more sharply or again when entering the overlap with the kidney process. In absolute terms, however, this increase in cell volume is significantly smaller than the increase when passing through the suction region.

[0020] It is useful if, in the separation area between a rear end of the suction kidney in the direction of rotation and a front end of the kidney process of the pressure kidney in the direction of rotation, the inner circumferential surface of the lifting structure is curved with an increasing radius of curvature around the axis of rotation, so that the respective wing only moves deeper into the corresponding guide slot after reaching the kidney process.

[0021] It is advantageous if a reduction in the size of each of the conveyor cells begins during a rotational movement of the rotor in a rotational angular position in which the leading wing of the respective conveyor cell still overlaps with the kidney process.

[0022] In advantageous embodiments, the renal process is curved around the axis of rotation. It can be curved with a varying or, in particular, with a constant radius of curvature. It is advantageous if the renal process, along its extension from the pressure kidney, forms a section opposite to the direction of rotation to its anterior end, forming a circular ring around the axis of rotation.

[0023] The suction kidney and / or the pressure kidney including the renal process is / are preferably formed in the first end wall and / or second end wall. Additionally or instead, the suction kidney and / or the pressure kidney with the renal process can be formed in the lifting structure.

[0024] If the pressure kidney and the kidney extension are formed in the first end wall and / or in the second end wall, a center line of the kidney extension running in the first end wall and / or in the second end wall preferably coincides, in plan view, with a circumferential arc of a defining circle around the rotational axis of the rotor. It is advantageous if the defining circle around the rotational axis surrounds the outer circumference of the rotor and / or is surrounded by the inner circumference of the lifting structure.

[0025] It is advantageous if an arc length of the renal process around the axis of rotation is smaller than a width of each conveyor cell measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation at the same radial height as the arc length of the renal process, so that a maximum of two adjacent conveyor cells can be connected to each other by the renal process at the same time.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, an arc length of the renal process around the axis of rotation is smaller than a width of each conveyor cell measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation at the same radial height as the arc length of the renal process, so that a maximum of two adjacent conveyor cells can overlap with the renal process at the same time.

[0027] Preferably, an arc length of the renal process around the axis of rotation corresponds to a width of each conveyor cell measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation measured at the same radial height as the arc length of the renal process reduced by at least one or at least two times a width of the wing measured at the same radial height around the axis of rotation.

[0028] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, an arc length of the renal process around the axis of rotation corresponds to a width of each conveyor cell measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation measured at the same height as the arc length of the renal process reduced by a maximum of three times or a maximum of four times a width of the wing measured at the same radial height around the axis of rotation.

[0029] It is advantageous if the kidney process in the first end wall and / or second end wall originates centrally from a front end of the first pressure kidney relative to the direction of rotation of the rotor.

[0030] Conveniently, the respective renal process has a constant cross-section along its entire extent. In particular, the respective renal process can have a cross-section with a constant depth and / or with a constant width, preferably a rectangular cross-section.

[0031] It is advantageous if the respective renal process has a square cross-section, i.e., its depth equals its width. In another embodiment, the respective renal process has a round cross-section.

[0032] It is advantageous if the respective renal process has the same cross-sections, ie no change in cross-section, along its extension in the first end wall and / or the second end wall in radial sectional planes running through the axis of rotation.

[0033] The geometric design of the renal process as a simple curved arch, especially a circular arch, with a constant cross-section has the advantage of being easy to manufacture. Only a groove formation along a simple arc is required. In principle, a more complex geometry of the renal process is also conceivable, e.g., a zigzag or serpentine shape and / or with a variation in the cross-sectional shape and / or cross-sectional size.

[0034] In advantageous further developments, a rear suction kidney edge, which delimits the suction kidney at its rear end adjacent to the separation area and in the direction of rotation, extends radially outward with a radial and a tangential directional component pointing in the direction of rotation, so that a radially outer edge of the suction kidney lies behind a radially inner edge of the suction kidney, offset by an arc angle in the direction of rotation. Such a configuration allows the separation area to be extended radially inward compared to a rear suction kidney edge extending exactly radially. The rear suction kidney edge can be curved or, preferably, straight.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment, each of the vanes is inclined toward a rear end of the suction kidney in the direction of rotation of the rotor, so that a rear suction kidney edge, which delimits the suction kidney at its rear end in the direction of rotation, extends at an incline toward the respective vane extending from the overlap with the suction kidney. The rear suction kidney edge can be curved or simply point at an angle to the respective vane.

[0036] In further developments, the vane pump has a first flow with the suction region, the pressure region and the separation region and at least one further, second flow, wherein the second flow comprises the following: a further, second suction region with a further, second suction kidney, a further, second pressure region with a further second pressure kidney following the second suction kidney in the direction of rotation, and a second separation region which extends between the second suction region in the direction of rotation and the second pressure region. The second pressure kidney also has a kidney extension at its front end in the direction of rotation, which extends counter to the direction of rotation towards the second suction kidney and is narrower than the second pressure kidney. The second separation region extends in the direction of rotation between a rear end of the second suction kidney and a front end of the second kidney extension.It conveniently extends from the posterior end of the second sucking kidney in the direction of rotation to the anterior end of the second renal process.

[0037] All embodiments disclosed for the renal extension of a single-flow vane pump or the renal extension of the first flow apply accordingly to the second renal extension of a multi-flow vane pump.

[0038] If multiple pressure kidneys are present, a renal process is expediently provided on at least two of these pressure kidneys, preferably on each of the pressure kidneys, at the front end of the respective pressure kidney in the direction of rotation and extends from there against the direction of rotation. The features disclosed with respect to a single renal process apply equally to the respective further renal process.

[0039] In an advantageous development of the invention, the renal processes have pairs of the same or different sized, constant radii of curvature around the axis of rotation.

[0040] The flutes of the multi-fluid vane pump can have a common inlet and each a separate outlet, or instead a common outlet and each a separate inlet. In a third alternative, the flutes can each have a separate inlet and each a separate outlet in order to be able to form separate delivery circuits. The flutes can be geometrically identical and / or designed to deliver the same pressure and / or the same volume per revolution. Preferably, one of the flutes of the multi-fluid vane pump, for example the first flute, forms a delivery circuit with a lower pressure at the outlet of one flute, and another of the flutes, for example the second flute, forms a delivery circuit with a higher pressure at the outlet of this other flute.

[0041] In a further development of the invention, the renal process of the first tide and the renal process of the second tide have different dimensions adapted to the respective tide, preferably different widths and / or different depths and / or different arc lengths.

[0042] Preferably, the renal process of the first tide and the renal process of the second tide occupy different radial positions around the axis of rotation.

[0043] It is advantageous if the suction kidney of a single-flow pump and the respective suction kidney of a multi-flow pump also have a kidney extension at their rear end in the direction of rotation, which extends in the direction of rotation, i.e. in the direction of the pressure kidney of the same flow following in the direction of rotation, and is narrower than the respective suction kidney.

[0044] The guide slots of the rotor can extend radially and tangentially with respect to the rotational axis, so that the vanes can move back and forth in a direction with both radial and tangential directional components. Preferably, the guide slots each extend with at least a predominantly radial component or simply radially, so that the vanes can move back and forth substantially or only radially.

[0045] The vanes can be distributed regularly or irregularly around the circumference of the rotor. The vanes can differ from one another in terms of their width measured in the circumferential direction or, expediently, can be the same. In particular, the conveyor cells can have the same widths at the same radial height measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation. Preferably, the spreads of the conveyor cells are the same. It is advantageous if the angles formed by each vane delimiting a conveyor cell are the same. Preferably, the conveyor cells are identical to one another.

[0046] Features of the invention are also described in the aspects formulated below. The aspects are formulated in the manner of claims and can replace them. Features disclosed in the aspects can further supplement and / or qualify the claims, show alternatives to individual features, and / or expand claim features. Reference numerals in parentheses refer to exemplary embodiments of the invention illustrated below in the figures. The reference numerals do not restrict the features described in the aspects in the literal sense as such, but on the other hand indicate preferred ways of implementing the respective feature. Aspect 1# Vane pump comprising: 1.1 a rotor (1) rotatable about an axis of rotation (R) with guide slots (2), 1.2 a lifting structure (4) with an inner circumferential surface (4a) surrounding the rotor (1), 1.3 several wings (3) which are guided back and forth in the guide slots (2), 1.4 a first end wall (5) and a second end wall, 1.5 a conveying chamber which is radially delimited by the outer circumferential surface of the rotor (1) and the inner circumferential surface (4a) of the lifting structure (4) and axially by the first end wall (5) and the second end wall and is divided into conveying cells (6), each of which is delimited by two adjacent vanes (3) in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R), and 1.6 a suction kidney (7) opening into the delivery chamber for sucking in fluid and a pressure kidney (8) opening into the delivery chamber for expelling the fluid, 1.7 wherein the conveyor cells (6) each pass through a suction area with the suction kidney (7), a pressure area with the pressure kidney (8) and a separation area extending in the direction of rotation between the suction area and the pressure area, which separates the suction area from the pressure area, during a rotational movement of the rotor (1), and increase in size in the suction area and decrease in size in the pressure area, and 1.8 the pressure kidney (8) has at its front end in the direction of rotation a kidney process (9) which extends opposite to the direction of rotation in the direction of the suction kidney (7) and is narrower than the pressure kidney (8), wherein the separation region extends from a rear end of the suction kidney in the direction of rotation to a front end of the kidney process. Aspect 2# Vane pump according to the preceding aspect, wherein in each rotational angle position of the rotor (1) at least one vane (3) is located between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney process (9). Aspect 3# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein in each rotational angle position of the rotor (1) at least one vane (3) is located in the separation region and fluidically separates the suction kidney (7) from the kidney process (9). Aspect 4# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) is so large that each of the delivery cells (6) is separated from the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) when passing through the separation region in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor (1) by means of the two vanes (3) delimiting the respective delivery cell (3). Aspect 5# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein for each of the delivery cells (6) it applies that in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor (1) an entire delivery cell (6) is located in the separation area and overlaps neither with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) nor with the suction kidney (7). Aspect 6# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the rotor (1) is rotatable with respect to each of the delivery cells (6) into a rotational angle position in which the vane (3) delimiting the respective delivery cell (6) at the trailing end projects in the direction of rotation beyond the suction kidney (7) and the same delivery cell (6) does not yet overlap with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 7# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the rotor (1) is rotatable with respect to each of the delivery cells (6) into a rotational angle position in which the vane (3) delimiting the respective delivery cell (6) at the trailing end projects in the direction of rotation beyond the suction kidney (7) and the vane (3) delimiting the same delivery cell (6) at the leading end does not yet overlap with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 8# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the trailing vane (3) of the respective delivery cell (6) moves out of the overlap with the suction kidney (7) during a rotational movement of the rotor (1) before the leading vane (3) of the same delivery cell (6) moves into the overlap with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 9# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein for each of the vanes (3) there is at least one rotational angle position of the rotor (1) in which a delivery cell (6) delimited trailing by the respective vane (3) overlaps with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) and a delivery cell (6) delimited leading by the same vane (3) overlaps with the suction kidney (7). Aspect 10# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) is at least as large as, preferably larger than, a width (d) of each of the delivery cells (6) measured at the same radial height in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R). Aspect 11# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) is at least one or at least two or at least three widths (c) of each of the vanes (3) greater than a width (d) of each of the delivery cells (6) measured at the same radial height in the circumferential direction. Aspect 12# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein for each of the delivery cells (6) it applies that in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor (1) the respective delivery cell (6) completely contains the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) and thereby overlaps with the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 13# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein for each of the delivery cells (6) the leading vane (3) of the respective delivery cell (6) comes into overlap with the pressure kidney (8) during a rotational movement of the rotor (1) before the trailing vane (3) of the same delivery cell (6) comes into overlap with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 14# Vane cell pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the delivery cells (6) assume a largest cell volume during a rotational movement of the rotor (1) in a rotational angle position in which the respective delivery cell (6) has moved out of the overlap with the suction kidney (7) and already into the overlap with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 15# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein each of the conveying cells (6) experiences an increase in its cell volume when passing through the separation region. Aspect 16# Vane cell pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the delivery cells (6) assume a largest cell volume during a rotational movement of the rotor (1) when the vane (3) delimiting the respective delivery cell (6) at the leading end overlaps with the kidney process (9). Aspect 17# Vane cell pump according to the preceding aspect, wherein the conveying cells (6) each assume the largest cell volume when the respective conveying cell (6) already overlaps with the renal process (9). Aspect 18# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein in the separating region between a rear end of the suction kidney (7) in the direction of rotation and a front end of the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) in the direction of rotation, the inner circumferential surface (4a) of the lifting structure (4) is curved with an increasing radius of curvature around the axis of rotation (R), so that the respective vane (3) only moves deeper into the associated guide slot (2) after reaching the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 19# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a reduction in size of the respective delivery cell (6) only begins when the delivery cell (6) is already in overlap with the renal process (9) of the pressure kidney (8). Aspect 20# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a reduction in size of the respective delivery cell (6) begins during a rotational movement of the rotor (1) at a rotational angle position along the renal process (9). Aspect 21# Vane cell pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein in the separating region between a rear end of the suction kidney (7) in the direction of rotation and a front end of the kidney process (9) of the pressure kidney (8) in the direction of rotation, the volume of the delivery cells (6) increases even further. Aspect 22# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the renal process (9) is curved about the axis of rotation (R). Aspect 23# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the renal process (9) is curved around the axis of rotation (R) with a constant radius of curvature. Aspect 24# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the kidney process (9) describes a section of a circular ring around the axis of rotation (R) along its extension from the pressure kidney (8) against the direction of rotation to its front end. Aspect 25# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the pressure kidney (8) and / or the suction kidney (7) and / or the kidney extension (9) is / are formed in the first end wall (5) and / or in the second end wall. Aspect 26# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein a center line of the kidney process (9) running in the first end wall (5) and / or the second end wall coincides with a circumferential arc of a definition circle (14) around the axis of rotation (R) of the rotor. Aspect 27# Vane pump according to the preceding aspect, wherein the definition circle (14) around the axis of rotation (R) surrounds the outer circumference of the rotor (1) and / or is surrounded by the inner circumference of the lifting structure (4). Aspect 28# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein an arc length (a) of the renal process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) is smaller than a width (d) of each of the conveying cells (6) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) at the same radial height as the arc length (a) of the renal process (9). Aspect 29# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein an arc length (a) of the kidney process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) corresponds to a width (d) of each of the conveyor cells (6) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) at the same radial height as the arc length (a) of the kidney process (9) reduced by at least 1 or at least 2 times a width (c) of each of the vanes (3) measured at the same radial height. Aspect 30# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein an arc length (a) of the kidney process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) corresponds to a width (d) of each of the conveyor cells (6) measured in the circumferential direction, measured at the same radial height as the arc length (a) of the kidney process (9), reduced by a maximum of 3 times or a maximum of 4 times a width (c) of each of the vanes (3) measured at the same radial height. Aspect 31# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein an arc length (a) of the renal process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) is greater, preferably by at least a factor of two or three, than a width (c) measured in the circumferential direction of a vane (3) located in overlap with the renal process (9). Aspect 32# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the kidney extension (9) in the first end wall (5) and / or in the second end wall originates centrally from a front end of the pressure kidney (8) relative to the direction of rotation of the rotor (1). Aspect 33# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the renal process (9) has a constant cross-section along its entire extent. Aspect 34# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the renal process (9) has a cross-section with a constant depth (t) and / or a constant width (b), preferably a constant, for example rectangular, cross-section. Aspect 35# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the renal process (9) has a square-shaped cross-section. Aspect 36# Vane pump according to one of aspects 1 to 32, wherein the renal process (9) has a round cross-section. Aspect 37# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the kidney process (9) has identical cross sections, ie no cross-sectional change, along its extension in the first end wall (5) and / or second end wall in radial sectional planes running through the axis of rotation (R). Aspect 38# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the vane pump has a first flow with the suction region, the pressure region and the separation region and at least one further, second flow, the second flow comprising: - a further, second suction area with a further, second suction kidney (7), - a further, second pressure area with a further second pressure kidney (8) following the second suction kidney (7) in the direction of rotation, - and a further, second separation region which extends in the direction of rotation between the second suction region and the second pressure region, wherein the second pressure kidney (8) also has a kidney extension (9) at its front end in the direction of rotation and this further, second kidney extension (9) extends counter to the direction of rotation in the direction of the second suction kidney (7) and is narrower than the second pressure kidney (8), wherein the second separation region extends from a rear end of the second suction kidney in the direction of rotation to a front end of the second kidney extension Aspect 39# Vane pump according to the preceding aspect, wherein aspects 1 to 37 also apply in the same way to the second flood with the proviso that the second suction kidney replaces the suction kidney of the first flood, the second pressure kidney replaces the pressure kidney of the first flood, the second kidney process replaces the kidney process and the second separation area replaces the separation area of ​​the first flood in the formulation of the respective aspect. Aspect 40# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein, when there are several pressure kidneys (8), a kidney extension (9) according to one of aspects 1 to 37 is provided on at least two of these pressure kidneys (8), preferably on each of the pressure kidneys (8), at the respective front end of the corresponding pressure kidney (8) in the direction of rotation and extends counter to the direction of rotation. Aspect 41# Vane pump according to one of aspects 38 to 40, wherein the renal processes (9) have pairs of the same or different sized, constant radii of curvature around the axis of rotation (R). Aspect 42# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects in combination with aspect 38, wherein the first flow forms a pressure circuit of lower pressure and the second flow forms a pressure circuit of higher pressure. Aspect 43# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects in combination with aspect 38, wherein the inner circumferential surface (4a) of the lifting structure (4) is designed such that the vanes (3) execute a smaller stroke in the region of the first flood than in the region of the second flood. Aspect 44# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects in combination with aspect 38, wherein the renal extension (9) of the first flow and the renal extension (9) of the second flow have different dimensions adapted to the respective flow, preferably different widths (b) and / or different depths (t) and / or different arc lengths (a). Aspect 45# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects in combination with aspect 38, wherein the renal extension (9) of the first flow and the renal extension (9) of the second flow assume different radial positions around the axis of rotation (R). Aspect 46# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the respective suction kidney (7) also has a kidney extension (9) at its rear end in the direction of rotation, which extends in the direction of rotation and is narrower than the respective suction kidney (7). Aspect 47# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the guide slots (2) are each radially extended so that the vanes (3) are radially movable back and forth. Aspect 48# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the delivery cells (6) have equal widths (d) measured at the same radial height in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R). Aspect 49# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the spreads of the conveying cells (6) are of equal size. Aspect 50# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the angles formed by two vanes (3) delimiting a delivery cell (6) are all of the same size. Aspect 51# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the vanes (3) are regularly distributed over the circumference of the rotor (1). Aspect 52# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein each of the vanes (3) has an inclination, preferably obliquely, towards a rear end of the suction kidney (7) in the direction of rotation of the rotor (1). Aspect 53# Vane pump according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the fluid is a liquid, such as lubricating oil, gear oil or liquid coolant and / or the vane pump is designed and / or used as a gear pump or lubricating oil pump or coolant pump, preferably in a motor vehicle.

[0047] An exemplary embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the figures. The features revealed in the figures, individually and in any combination of features, advantageously develop the claims, aspects, and also the embodiments explained above. They show: Fig. 1 is a plan view of a vane pump according to the invention, Fig. 2 a plan view of an end wall of the vane pump, Fig. 3 the front wall in longitudinal section CC of the Fig. 2, and Fig. 4 a detail of the Fig. 3, which shows a renal process in cross section.

[0048] Fig. 1 shows a vane pump with a rotor 1, which is rotatable about a rotational axis R. The rotor 1, together with several vanes 3, forms a conveying wheel of the vane pump. The vanes 3 are arranged regularly distributed around the rotational axis R and are guided back and forth in guide slots 2 of the rotor 1. The center lines of the guide slots 2 can, for example, run radially through the rotational axis R. A pump housing of the vane pump has a lifting structure 4 and a first end wall 5 as well as a Fig. 1. The end wall 5 and the second end wall delimit a delivery chamber of the vane pump at the axial end faces. The lifting structure 4 surrounds the delivery chamber and the delivery wheel rotatable in the delivery chamber. The first end wall 5 and the second end wall can bear directly axially against the two end faces of the lifting structure 4. When the rotor 1 rotates, the vanes 3 slide along an inner circumferential surface 4a of the lifting structure 4. The inner circumferential surface 4a determines, depending on its shape, how far the vanes 3 can extend from the rotor 1 as they rotate.

[0049] The vanes 3 delimit delivery cells 6, respectively leading and trailing in the direction of rotation of the rotor 1. The vane pump has, for example, twelve delivery cells 6. Radially inward, the delivery cells 6 are delimited by the rotor 1 and radially outward by the lifting structure 4. When the rotor 1 rotates in the direction of the direction of rotation arrow 13, the delivery cells 6 periodically enlarge in a suction area of ​​the vane pump and shrink again in a pressure area in order to suck in a fluid to be delivered by the vane pump from a suction kidney 7 located in the suction area and to expel it at increased pressure in the pressure area through a pressure kidney 8 located there. The pressure area is fluidically separated from the suction area by a separating area in order to prevent a short circuit between the suction area and the pressure area.

[0050] The separation area extends from the suction kidney 7 in the direction of rotation to a kidney extension 9 of the pressure kidney 8 following the suction kidney 7 in the direction of rotation. The pressure kidney 8 narrows to the kidney extension 9, which offers the fluid a significantly smaller flow cross-section compared to the pressure kidney 8. Because a pressure build-up in the respective delivery cell 6 already begins when the delivery cell 6 is in overlap with the kidney extension 9, there can be no or only very large pressure splashes / pressure pulses in the respective delivery cell 6 when the respective delivery cell 6 runs into the overlap with the pressure kidney 8. The pressure equalization with the pressure kidney 8, iethe pressure build-up or, if necessary, a pressure reduction, is brought forward and distributed in the respective delivery cell 6 over the arc length of the renal process 9 measured in the circumferential direction, whereby the pressure equalization in the area of ​​the renal process 9 takes place more gently and / or only partially due to the smaller cross-section compared to the actual pressure kidney 8.

[0051] The vane pump is multi-flow, in the example shown double-flow, so that a suction and discharge process takes place in each of the flows with each revolution. The vane pump has a first flow, which forms a low-pressure circuit and is connected to a Fig. 1 upper part of the pumping chamber, and a second flood, which forms a high pressure circuit and extends into Fig. 1 extends over a lower part of the conveying chamber.

[0052] The first flow comprises a suction region with a first suction kidney 7, a pressure region with a first pressure kidney 8 and, in the direction of rotation of the rotor 1, a first separation region between the first suction kidney 7 and the first pressure kidney 8. The second flow comprises a suction region with a second suction kidney 7, a pressure region with a second pressure kidney 8 and, in the direction of rotation of the rotor 1, a second separation region between the second suction kidney 7 and the second pressure kidney 8. When the rotor 1 rotates in the direction of rotation arrow 13, counterclockwise in the exemplary embodiment, the conveying cells 6 in the suction region of the first flow enlarge and suck in fluid as they pass over the first suction kidney 7, transport the sucked-in fluid via the first separation region into the pressure region of the first flow, where they shrink and expel the fluid at increased pressure via the first pressure kidney 8.As rotation continues, this process is repeated in the second flow, with the delivery cells 6 in the suction area of ​​the second flow enlarging again and sucking in fluid as they pass over the second suction kidney 7, transporting the sucked-in fluid through the second separation area into the pressure area of ​​the second flow, where the delivery cells shrink again, so that the fluid is expelled at increased pressure via the second pressure kidney 8. This double stroke is repeated with each rotation of the rotor 1.

[0053] The pressure kidneys 8, ie both the pressure kidney 8 of the first flood and the pressure kidney 8 of the second flood, are each adjoined by a kidney process 9 which is slender compared to the respective pressure kidney 8, so that the pressure equalization within each of the floods is equalized as explained above.

[0054] The delivery cells 6 each have a width 'd' measured in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis R. Each of the delivery cells 6 is delimited by two vanes 3 arranged consecutively in the circumferential direction, each of which has a width 'c' also measured in the circumferential direction. The suction kidneys 7, the pressure kidneys 8, and the kidney extensions 9 are arranged on the first end wall 5 of the vane pump. They can also be arranged on the second end wall (not shown) of the vane pump instead. In another variant, the suction kidneys 7, pressure kidneys 8, and kidney extensions 9 can also be provided on both end walls.

[0055] The lifting structure 4 runs in such a way that the conveying cells 6 enlarge in the area of ​​the respective suction kidney 7. In the separation area, which extends in the direction of rotation from the end of the suction kidney 7 of the respective flow to the beginning of the kidney process 9 of the same flow, the conveying cells 6 can enlarge further. The enlargement of the conveying cells 6 can continue up to a certain point along the extension of the kidney process 9, from which point the reduction of the conveying cells 6 begins. In this case, the enlargement of the respective conveying cell 6 can level off until the respective kidney process 9 is reached, if necessary the conveying cell volume can remain constant over a small rotation angle range of the rotor 1, and only increase more significantly or not at all again when the kidney process 9 is reached.Advantageously, the reduction begins before the respective conveyor cell 6 runs into overlap with the respective pressure kidney 9, i.e., before the wing 3, which delimits the respective conveyor cell 6 at the leading end, has run out of overlap with the kidney process 9 of the respective pressure kidney 8. The reduction can begin, in particular, when or before the wing 3, which delimits the respective conveyor cell 6 at the leading end, reaches the transition from the kidney process 9 into the actual pressure kidney 8.

[0056] Fig. 2 shows the end wall 5 of the vane cell pump, in which the suction kidneys 7, the pressure kidneys 8 and the kidney processes 9 are arranged. The respective kidney process 9 extends over an arc length 'a' from a front end in the direction of rotation of the full pressure kidney 8 adjoining it in the direction of rotation, i.e. starting from the respective pressure kidney 8 against the direction of rotation of the rotor 1. The respective kidney process 9 is curved with a constant radius of curvature around the axis of rotation R. The arc length 'a' corresponds to the extension of the respective kidney process 9 around the axis of rotation R. A center line of the respective kidney process 9 extends on a definition circle 14 around the axis of rotation R. The respective kidney process 9 surrounds the outer circumference of the rotor 1 and is surrounded by the inner circumference of the lifting structure 4.The respective kidney extension 9 can originate from a front end of the first or second pressure kidney 8 with respect to the direction of rotation of the rotor 1 and facing the associated suction kidney 7 in the circumferential direction, in particular centrally.

[0057] The arc length 'a' and the widths 'c' and 'd', which can also be understood as arc lengths, are measured at the same radial height around the axis of rotation R. The arc length 'a' of the respective renal process 9 is at least one time or at least two times the width 'c' of the wing 3 smaller than the width 'd' of the conveyor cells 6. However, the renal process 9 is a maximum of three times or a maximum of four times the width 'c' of the wing 3 smaller than the width 'd' of the conveyor cells 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc length 'a' of the renal process 9 corresponds to the width 'd' of the conveyor cells 6 reduced by three widths 'c' of the wing 3. In advantageous embodiments, the renal process 9 has a constant cross-section along its entire extent, ie over its entire arc length 'a'.

[0058] For the arc length 'a' of the respective renal process 9, one or more of the following relations can advantageously apply: a≤(d−c) or a≤(d−2⋅c) a≥(d−4⋅c) or a≥(d−3⋅c)

[0059] Fig. Figure 3 shows the frontal wall 5 in a longitudinal section. The two renal processes 9 are visible in the longitudinal section.

[0060] Fig. 4 shows the detail X of the Fig. 3 and thus one of the renal processes 9 in an enlarged view and also representative of the other renal process 9. The flow cross-section of the renal process 9 has a constant depth 't' and a width 'b' over a predominant portion of the arc length 'a' of the renal process 9. This preferably applies starting from the pressure kidney 8 over more than 90% of the arc length 'a'. In the exemplary embodiment, the flow cross-section is U-shaped or rectangular with rounded corner areas. Reference symbol: 1 rotor guide slot 2 3 wings 4 Lifting structure 4a Inner peripheral surface of the lifting structure 5 Front wall 6 conveyor cells 7 suction kidney 8 Pressure kidney 9 renal process 10 Vane pump 13 Direction of rotation arrow 14 Definition circle a Arc length of the renal process b Width of the renal process c Arch length of the respective wing d Arc length of the respective conveyor cell R axis of rotation t Depth of the renal process QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 200 40 30 473 B4

[0002]

Claims

[1] Vane pump comprising: 1.1 a rotor (1) rotatable about an axis of rotation (R) with guide slots (2), 1.2 a lifting structure (4) with an inner circumferential surface (4a) surrounding the rotor (1), 1.3 several wings (3) which are guided back and forth in the guide slots (2), 1.4 a first end wall (5) and a second end wall, 1.5 a conveying chamber which is radially delimited by the outer circumferential surface of the rotor (1) and the inner circumferential surface (4a) of the lifting structure (4) and axially by the first end wall (5) and the second end wall and is divided into conveying cells (6), each of which is delimited by two adjacent vanes (3) in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R), and 1.6 a suction kidney (7) opening into the delivery chamber for sucking in fluid and a pressure kidney (8) opening into the delivery chamber for expelling the fluid, 1.7 wherein the conveyor cells (6) each pass through a suction area with the suction kidney (7), a pressure area with the pressure kidney (8) and a separation area extending in the direction of rotation between the suction area and the pressure area, which separates the suction area from the pressure area, during a rotational movement of the rotor (1), and increase in size in the suction area and decrease in size in the pressure area, and 1.8 the pressure kidney (8) has at its front end in the direction of rotation a kidney process (9) which extends opposite to the direction of rotation in the direction of the suction kidney (7) and is narrower than the pressure kidney (8), wherein the separation region extends from a rear end of the suction kidney in the direction of rotation to a front end of the kidney process. [2] Vane pump according to the preceding claim, wherein in each rotational angle position of the rotor (1) at least one vane (3) is located between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney process (9). [3] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) is so large that each of the delivery cells (6) is separated from the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) when passing through the separation region in at least one rotational angle position of the rotor (1) by means of the two vanes (3) delimiting the respective delivery cell (3). [4] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein for each of the vanes (3) there is at least one rotational angle position of the rotor (1) in which a delivery cell (6) delimited by the respective vane (3) in a trailing manner overlaps with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) and a delivery cell (6) delimited by the same vane (3) in a leading manner overlaps with the suction kidney (7). [5] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a smallest distance measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) between the suction kidney (7) and the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) is at least as large as, preferably larger than, a width (d) of each of the delivery cells (6) measured at the same radial height in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R). [6] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the delivery cells (6) assume a largest cell volume during a rotational movement of the rotor (1) in a rotational angle position in which the respective delivery cell (6) has moved out of the overlap with the suction kidney (7) and already into the overlap with the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8). [7] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in the separation region between a rear end of the suction kidney (7) in the direction of rotation and a front end of the kidney extension (9) of the pressure kidney (8) in the direction of rotation, the volume of the delivery cells (6) increases further. [8] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a center line of the kidney process (9) running in the first end wall (5) and / or the second end wall coincides with a circumferential arc of a definition circle (14) around the axis of rotation (R) of the rotor. [9] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an arc length (a) of the renal process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) is smaller than a width (d) of each of the conveyor cells (6) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) at the same radial height as the arc length (a) of the renal process (9). [10] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an arc length (a) of the kidney process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) corresponds to a width (d) of each of the conveyor cells (6) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) at the same radial height as the arc length (a) of the kidney process (9) reduced by at least 1 or at least 2 times a width (c) of each of the vanes (3) measured at the same radial height. [11] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an arc length (a) of the kidney process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) corresponds to a width (d) of each of the conveyor cells (6) measured in the circumferential direction, measured at the same radial height as the arc length (a) of the kidney process (9), reduced by a maximum of 3 times or a maximum of 4 times a width (c) of each of the vanes (3) measured at the same radial height. [12] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an arc length (a) of the renal process (9) measured in the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (R) is greater, preferably by at least a factor of two or three, than a width (c) measured in the circumferential direction of a vane (3) overlapping with the renal process (9). [13] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the kidney extension (9) has a cross-section with a constant depth (t) and / or a constant width (b), preferably a constant, for example rectangular, cross-section. [14] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vane pump has a first flow with the suction region, the pressure region and the separation region and at least one further, second flow, the second flow comprising: - a further, second suction area with a further, second suction kidney (7), - a further, second pressure area with a further second pressure kidney (8) following the second suction kidney (7) in the direction of rotation, - and a further, second separation region which extends in the direction of rotation between the second suction region and the second pressure region, wherein the second pressure kidney (8) also has a kidney process (9) at its front end in the direction of rotation and this further, second kidney process (9) extends counter to the direction of rotation in the direction of the second suction kidney (7) and is narrower than the second pressure kidney (8), wherein the second separation region extends from a rear end of the second suction kidney in the direction of rotation to a front end of the second kidney process [15] Vane pump according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the respective suction kidney (7) also has at its rear end in the direction of rotation a kidney extension (9) which extends in the direction of rotation and is narrower than the respective suction kidney (7).

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