Pump housing

Abstract

According to various embodiments, a pump housing can have: an input port (110), an output port (120), a plurality of housing sections, of which: a first housing section (130) has a first cavity, in which the input port (110) opens; a second housing section (140) has a second cavity, in which the output port (120) opens, and a housing wall (141) which bounds the second cavity and is penetrated along an axis of rotation (162) by a shaft-receiving opening (161) for receiving a drive shaft (410); wherein the plurality of housing sections are formed monolithically.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Pump housing

[0003] Various embodiments relate to a pump housing.

[0004] Pumps are generally used in many technical fields where a fluid is generated that needs to be transferred and / or compressed. For example, the fluid may be waste (e.g., wastewater) that is regularly and / or continuously disposed of, e.g., by pumping it into a separate disposal infrastructure. The wastewater may, for example, contain water contaminated by use and / or rainwater. In some cases, it may be necessary to create a vacuum using a pump to draw in the fluid.

[0005] The aim is generally to make the use of such pumps cost-effective, although the resulting costs can depend on manufacturing costs, operating costs, and / or disposal costs. Operating costs include, for example, maintenance costs, downtime costs, and repair costs. Therefore, particularly robust pumps can have a positive impact on operating costs because they require little maintenance and are reliable. However, pumps are considered an established technology whose potential for reducing these costs has largely been exhausted. Therefore, considerations of potential cost reductions are traditionally limited to selecting the most suitable pump for the application from the very wide range of pumps available.

[0006] According to various embodiments, it has been clearly recognized that the potential for reducing these costs is traditionally not fully exploited. Among other things, it has been recognized that both the pump housing and the pumping mechanism arranged therein offer such potential for reducing these costs. In this regard, it has been recognized that a liquid ring pump is particularly low-maintenance and robust compared to other pump types.

[0007] According to various embodiments, a pump housing is provided which reduces the manufacturing costs and / or the operating costs of a pump, as will be described in more detail later.

[0008] Among other things, it was recognized that the design of conventional pump housings is primarily geared toward cost-effective manufacturing and assembly, but this increases maintenance costs. For example, it may be necessary to disassemble the conventional pump housing into its individual components and / or remove it from a piping system to access the pumping mechanism inside the pump housing.

[0009] In contrast, according to various embodiments, a pump housing is provided which reduces maintenance costs. The geometry of the pump housing is clearly designed in such a way that the pumping mechanism, either as a whole or in individual parts, can be brought into or taken out of the pump housing without having to disassemble the pump housing into its individual parts and / or remove it from the piping system. This favors, among other things, production from polyurethane and / or in a monolithic manner. It was clearly recognized that a working chamber in which the pumping mechanism is arranged is arranged between a suction chamber and a pressure chamber of the pump housing, which is why these chambers have to be disassembled from one another in order to access the pumping mechanism. In this regard, the suction chamber and / or the pressure chamber of the pump housing are designed in such a way that the pumping mechanism (e.g.in combination or as individual parts) can be moved through the suction chamber and / or the pressure chamber in order to bring it into or out of the working chamber.

[0010] Among other things, it was recognized that manufacturing from polyurethane and / or in a monolithic manner reduces production costs. It was clearly recognized that the production of conventional pump housings is cost-intensive, for example because additional tooling, a lot of energy and / or expensive materials are required. In contrast, it was recognized that polyurethane enables production using a pressureless casting process and has more favorable properties for a pump housing than other plastics. For example, polyurethane is more water-resistant than polyamide because polyamide tends to absorb water. The pressureless casting process is more economical and reliable than injection molding, which is necessary for polyamide or polypropylene, for example, because fewer expensive tooling is required. And it increases the flexibility in the geometric design of the pump housing, because injection molding allows little flexibility in varying wall thicknesses.

[0011] Among other things, it was recognized that the existing prejudice that plastic, due to its low resistance, is generally unsuitable for the production of pump housings exposed to blackwater, brownwater, and / or saltwater (e.g., on a ship), does not necessarily apply to all plastics. Among other things, it was recognized that polyurethane, or rather a pump housing made of polyurethane, is sufficiently stable for applications in which the pump housing is exposed to at least blackwater, brownwater, and / or saltwater.

[0012] It shows

[0013] Figure 1 schematically shows a pump housing according to various embodiments,

[0014] Figures 2A and 2B each schematically show different aspects of a pump housing,

[0015] Figure 20 shows an example of a suction connection according to various embodiments,

[0016] Figures 2D to 2F each schematically show different aspects of a pump housing,

[0017] Figure 3 schematically shows various aspects of a check valve,

[0018] Figure 4 schematically shows various aspects of a drive device, Figures 5A to 5G each schematically show various aspects of a vacuum pump,

[0019] Figures 6A to 6D each schematically show different aspects of an impeller,

[0020] Figure 7 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for handling a pump housing described herein according to various embodiments,

[0021] Figure 8 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for handling a pump housing described herein according to various embodiments, and

[0022] Figure 9 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for operating a pump housing described herein according to various embodiments.

[0023] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional terminology such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "fore," "rear," etc., will be used with reference to the orientation of the described figure(s). Since components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.It is understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined with one another unless specifically stated otherwise. The following detailed description is therefore not to be construed in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0024] Throughout this description, the terms "connected," "attached," and "coupled" are used to describe both a direct and an indirect connection (e.g., resistive and / or electrically conductive, e.g., an electrically conductive connection), a direct or indirect connection, and a direct or indirect coupling. In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference numerals where appropriate.

[0025] According to various embodiments, the term "coupled" or "coupling" can be understood in the sense of a (e.g., mechanical, hydrostatic, thermal, and / or electrical), e.g., direct or indirect, connection and / or interaction. For example, several elements can be coupled to one another along an interaction chain, along which the interaction can be exchanged, e.g., a fluid (then also referred to as fluidically coupled). For example, two coupled elements can exchange an interaction with one another, e.g., a mechanical, hydrostatic, thermal, and / or electrical interaction. A coupling of several vacuum components (e.g., valves, pumps, chambers, etc.) to one another can include fluidically coupling them. According to various embodiments, "coupled" can be understood in the sense of a mechanical (e.g., physical) coupling, e.g.,by means of direct physical contact. A clutch can be configured to transmit a mechanical interaction (e.g., force, torque, etc.).

[0026] The term "pumping process" (also referred to as fluid transfer process) refers herein to the transfer (also referred to as conveying) of a fluid (e.g. comprising gas and / or liquid) by means of a pump. The term "pump" refers to a device configured to drive the transfer of the fluid, e.g. by applying mechanical work to the gas by means of the pump, which compresses the gas, and / or by displacing the fluid. As a result of the pumping process, the pressure to which the inlet connection of the pump (also referred to as suction connection) is subjected (also referred to as inlet pressure), by means of which the pump takes in the fluid, may decrease.

[0027] A vacuum pump is a pump designed to generate a negative pressure (e.g., vacuum) as the inlet pressure by means of the pumping process. For example, a vacuum pump can be designed to generate a vacuum (i.e., a pressure less than 0.3 bar), e.g., an inlet pressure in a range of approximately 10 2 mbar to approximately 10 3 mbar (in other words pre-vacuum) or less, e.g. an inlet pressure in a range of approximately 10 3 mbar to approximately 10 7 mbar (in other words high vacuum) or less, e.g. an inlet pressure of less than high vacuum, e.g. less than approximately 10 7 mbar (in other words ultra-high vacuum).

[0028] The term “fluid flow rate” refers to the amount of fluid moved per unit of time (e.g., specified as standard volume per unit of time) and can be expressed, for example, as volume flow and / or mass flow. Comparative information on the fluid flow rate can be related to the same pressure p (e.g., standard volume) and / or the same temperature T to which the transferred fluid is exposed. The standard volume can, for example, be defined according to ISO 2533 (e.g., at p = 1.01325 bar and T = 288.15 K). The term “pump rate” (also referred to as pump power) refers to the fluid flow rate provided by a pump, e.g., the amount of fluid transferred by the pump per unit of time.

[0029] With regard to the pump, reference is made here to a liquid ring pump as an exemplary pump which is particularly low-maintenance and cost-effective. The term “liquid ring pump” refers to a pump (e.g. liquid vacuum pump) in which a so-called liquid ring is formed inside during operation. The liquid ring pump has a so-called impeller (e.g. a paddle wheel or screw wheel) which is arranged and rotatably mounted in a chamber (also referred to as the working chamber) of the pump, which is provided for example by means of the housing of the pump (also referred to as the pump housing). The interior of the working chamber (also referred to as the working space) can fluidly couple the inlet-side connection of the pump (also referred to as the suction connection or inlet connection) to the outlet-side connection of the pump (also referred to as the outlet connection).The impeller may have a bearing base and one or more than one blade (also called a vane or tooth) rigidly attached thereto, each blade extending away from the bearing base and defining a cavity of the impeller (also called a discharge chamber). The bearing section may, for example, have a shaft or at least a through opening for receiving the shaft. The helical gear (also called a screw-type impeller) has one or more than one thread as the discharge chamber, each thread extending along a helical path around the axis of rotation. Two adjacent threads or two adjacent sections of the same thread are separated from each other by a blade, which also extends along a helical path around the axis of rotation. For example, the screw-type impeller, e.g. its blade, may have a helical shape.

[0030] If a pump is a liquid ring pump, the axis of rotation about which the impeller is rotatably mounted is arranged relative to the working chamber (also referred to as a liquid ring configuration), e.g. arranged in the working space, such that the axis of rotation is arranged eccentrically to the liquid ring formed during operation and / or eccentrically to a lateral surface of the working chamber which surrounds the axis of rotation and delimits the working space. If the geometry of the working chamber (e.g. of the working space and / or the lateral surface) is at least partially rotationally symmetrical (e.g. in the case of a cylindrical working chamber), the axis of rotation of the impeller can be arranged eccentrically to the axis of rotational symmetry of the working space and / or the lateral surface. If the geometry of the working chamber is not rotationally symmetrical (e.g.in the case of a figure-eight-shaped working chamber), the impeller can, for example, be arranged centrally and / or on an axis of symmetry of the working chamber and / or the outer surface. The impeller is arranged in the working chamber in such a way that the impeller (or at least its blades) is spatially separated from the outer surface in the radial direction (also referred to as contact-free). In other words, a gap can be formed between the impeller and the radial chamber walls of the working chamber, which gap runs along the impeller along a closed path. During operation of the pump, the impeller is set in a rotary motion, which transfers the rotary motion to the liquid (e.g. comprising water) contained in the working chamber. The liquid thereby forms a liquid ring in the working chamber that fills the gap (e.g. concentric with the working chamber), and which seals the conveying chambers formed between the blades of the impeller from one another.The liquid ring is arranged eccentrically to the impeller's rotational axis, so that the vanes are immersed in the liquid ring at different depths, creating a piston effect that alternately draws in and compresses fluid. The term "liquid ring screw pump" refers to a liquid ring pump whose impeller has one or more threads, i.e., is designed like a screw.

[0031] Regarding the liquid ring pump as an exemplary pump, however, it can be understood that alternatively to the liquid ring pump, a pump of another type (e.g., a positive displacement type) can be used, as long as the costs are acceptable.

[0032] The term “fluid” can be understood as a material that continuously deforms under the influence of shear forces, for example, adapting to the shape of a container. For example, it may offer no resistance to shear or only the resistance to flow (i.e., it may have a finite viscosity). For example, the fluid may be subject to the law of flow above the yield point (DIN 1342, as of February 2023). A fluid may comprise or consist of a gas and / or a liquid, and optionally contain solid particles. A fluid, as used herein, may comprise or consist of a paste, such as a thermal paste. A paste can be understood as a suspension (solid-liquid mixture). A thermal paste can be understood as a paste that improves heat transfer between two objects, such as a substrate and a frame, compared to air.

[0033] The term "fluid-conducting" in relation to a connection between two objects (e.g., regions or components) can be understood to mean that the connection between the two objects is configured to mediate a hydrostatic interaction between the two objects by means of a fluid, for example, an exchange of fluid between the two objects. The connection can be implemented, for example, by means of direct contact with one another, a line (e.g., of the pipe and / or hose type), or another fluid-permeable component that mediates the hydrostatic interaction. A line can generally comprise a hollow body that is open on both sides. The line can, for example, be rigid (e.g., comprising a pipe) or flexible (e.g., comprising a hose).

[0034] Here, reference is made to a waste liquid as an example fluid, which may, for example, include or consist of wastewater. Wastewater can clearly include contaminated water, e.g., containing suspended matter or other solids, containing a liquid other than water, or containing dissolved components. Condensation refers to water that condenses on the cool surface of objects as soon as water-containing air or gas is cooled below the dew point. If moisture condenses from water-containing air, the condensation may also contain condensable air pollutants.Examples of wastewater (also referred to as dirty water) include: greywater (according to EN 12056-1 (March 2023), faeces-free, slightly contaminated wastewater, such as that generated from showering, bathing, or handwashing, but which can also come from washing machines); and blackwater (according to ISO 6107-7:1997 (March 2023), domestic wastewater, for example, containing urine and / or fecal solids). Blackwater without urine is also referred to as brownwater (e.g., containing feces, flushing water, and / or toilet paper).

[0035] It should be understood that what is described for the waste liquid can apply analogously to any other (e.g., condensed) fluid (e.g., comprising or consisting of a liquid). The waste liquid can, for example, comprise or consist of an organic liquid. The waste liquid can, for example, comprise or consist of an inorganic liquid. Examples of the waste liquid include: wastewater, condensate, coolant, oil, etc.

[0036] According to various embodiments, the pumping process comprises that the exchange (e.g. transport) of the fluid (e.g. a liquid, e.g. the waste liquid) is stimulated or brought about by means of a pressure difference (also referred to as suction). The suction ensures that the fluid can be extracted efficiently and against the force of gravity and / or over a longer distance, e.g. from a distance. The suction can comprise that the fluid is subjected to the pressure difference (e.g. between a negative pressure and atmospheric air pressure). The pressure difference can, for example, be greater than approximately 0.1 bar, e.g. than approximately 0.25 bar, e.g. than approximately 0.5 bar, e.g. than approximately 0.75 bar, e.g. than approximately 0.9 bar. Applying the pressure difference to the fluid can, for example, comprise that the fluid is subjected to the negative pressure (e.g. a vacuum). The negative pressure can be less than atmospheric air pressure.The negative pressure can be generated, for example, by means of a pump system. The negative pressure can be less than approximately 0.8 bar, e.g., less than approximately 0.7 bar, e.g., less than approximately 0.6 bar. The vacuum can be less than approximately 0.3 bar, e.g., less than approximately 0.2 bar, e.g., less than approximately 0.1 bar.

[0037] This refers to various components (e.g. connections, pumps, lines, containers, hoses, etc.) of a hydrostatic system, which can, for example, be designed to be suitable for vacuum (in which case also referred to as a vacuum component). A vacuum component (e.g. vacuum line, vacuum hose, vacuum connection, vacuum container, etc.) can clearly be designed to be vacuum-stable (e.g. vacuum-stable), i.e. they can withstand a negative pressure inside when exposed to external atmospheric pressure (also referred to as pressure-stable), e.g. essentially without deformation and / or while maintaining their fluid-conducting capabilities, and / or separate them from one another in an airtight manner. This ensures that the vacuum component continues to conduct fluid when a negative pressure is applied to it, so that suction can take place through it. A vacuum connection can, for example, have a seal.

[0038] The term “connector” refers to a device that is designed to be coupled to another component (e.g. to form a hydrostatic connection) and to exchange an interaction (e.g. material) with this component, e.g. to exchange a fluid. The other component can, for example, have another connection, a hose or a pipe. For coupling, the connection can have one or more than one positive locking contour. Examples of a positive locking contour include: eyelet, thread, through opening, recess or locking lug (e.g. of a snap-in closure), longitudinal slot (e.g. of a bayonet closure), projection (e.g. of the bayonet closure), etc. For example, the connection can have a flange or be formed from one. Reference is also made herein to connections of different types (e.g. of the fluid intake connection type or fluid output connection type).With regard to the terms "fluid intake port" and "fluid discharge port," it can be understood that these designate the direction of fluid transfer and can be coupled together to form the hydrostatic connection. For fluid exchange, the port can be penetrated by a channel through which the fluid can flow, for example, and which opens into a cavity.

[0039] The term "fluid switching system" herein refers to a network of vacuum components, such as lines (e.g. of the pipe and / or hose type), valves, branches, which has a fluid discharge port and one or more than one fluid intake port (e.g. having more than 5 or 10 supply ports), which are fluidly connected to one another by means of the vacuum components. The fluid switching system can be configured to transmit a pressure change provided at the fluid discharge port and / or the resulting pressure (e.g. negative pressure) to each fluid intake port (also referred to as supply port) of the fluid switching system. The fluid switching system can be used, for example, for the disposal of a waste liquid (also referred to as drainage), which originates, for example, from a refrigeration / freezing unit (e.g. in the form of condensate) and / or its cleaning.A vacuum pump system (e.g., its fluid intake port) can be connected to the fluid output port of the fluid transfer system, which provides the pressure change and / or the resulting pressure (e.g., negative pressure) (by means of a pumping process).

[0040] The term "chamber" herein refers to a hollow body, i.e. a body which has a cavity and a plurality of walls delimiting the cavity (also referred to as chamber walls). According to various embodiments, the chamber can be provided by means of a chamber housing in which one or more chambers can be provided. The chamber housing can, for example, be designed to provide a negative pressure (e.g., vacuum) in such a stable manner that it withstands the effect of the pressure difference between atmospheric air pressure and the negative pressure. Accordingly, one or more chambers can be provided in a chamber housing.

[0041] Polyurethane (also referred to as PUR for short) is a plastic (e.g., synthetic resin) that has a chain of interconnected urethane groups (-NH-CO-O-). Polyurethane is obtained through a polyaddition reaction of dialcohol and / or polyol with polyisocyanate. The density of polyurethane can range from approximately 1 to approximately 1000 kg / m³. 3 (kilograms per cubic meter) up to 1250 kg / m 3 Polyurethane can be foamed so that the density of a body made from it can be reduced, for example to a density in the range of approximately 5 kg / m 3 up to approximately 90 kg / m 3 .

[0042] When casting, a distinction is made, among other things, according to the form the material to be cast (also referred to as casting material) takes and how it is formed. Gravity casting is a pressureless casting process, which means that the casting material is only exposed to atmospheric air pressure (i.e. the hydrostatic pressure of the air) during casting. In gravity casting, the material to be cast enters the casting mold, for example, under the effect of gravity (e.g. only). In injection molding, which is mainly used for plastics processing, additional pressure is exerted on the material to be cast, under which pressure it is injected into the casting mold. This is accompanied by increased costs for injection molding, since increasing the pressure above atmospheric air pressure requires special tools that are difficult to maintain and costly.

[0043] In this regard, reference is made herein to polyurethane (PUR) as an exemplary casting material, which simplifies the manufacture of the pump housing and reduces maintenance costs due to increased robustness. However, it is understood that alternatively or in addition to polyurethane, a different type of casting material (e.g., a metal) may be used, provided the cost is acceptable, such as another polymer or a metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, or brass).

[0044] The term "mounting base" (also referred to as a socket) refers to a device which has one or more than one connecting element, by means of which another component can be mounted (e.g., in a form-fitting manner) on the mounting base. The term "connecting element" (in the context of assembly, also referred to as mounting element) refers to a machine element which is designed to connect two components to one another (also referred to as fastening them to one another), e.g., to fasten a component to and / or within a pump housing. A connecting element can, for example, be integrated into the component (e.g., the pump housing) and / or be designed to interact with a connecting element (e.g., a machine screw). The connecting element, which is integrated into the pump housing (e.g., its PUR), can, for example, be cast into the pump housing and / or fastened in a recess within the pump housing (e.g.,positively received). Classified according to the physical operating principle of the connecting element, the connection is also referred to as positive connection, force-fitting connection and material-fit connection. Examples of connecting elements for positive connection include: threads (e.g. an internal thread or external thread), machine screws, rivets, bolts, nuts, threaded sleeves, spindles, locking means, and the like. Reference is made here in particular to connecting elements for positive connection (also referred to as connecting elements of the positive connection type), it being understood that what is described here can apply analogously to connecting elements of other types. A pair of connecting elements of the positive connection type that are designed to be connected to one another can, for example, have mutually corresponding form-fitting contours, e.g. a thread or the like.

[0045] The connecting element, e.g., the connecting element integrated into the pump housing, enables, for example, simple assembly of a component within the pump housing, e.g., by means of a mounting element (e.g., a machine screw, a rivet, a bolt, etc.), which can fasten the component to the connecting element. Various embodiments relate to a connecting element that comprises or consists of a metal or an alloy. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting element can comprise or be a nut and / or a sleeve, e.g., a threaded sleeve.

[0046] For example, the pump housing can have a plurality of connecting elements. For example, one connecting element of the plurality of connecting elements can be a connecting element of a first type and another connecting element of the plurality of connecting elements can be a connecting element of a second type. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting element of the first and second type can differ from one another, e.g. in a diameter (e.g. inner diameter, outer diameter), a thread, a geometric cross-sectional shape (e.g. round cross-section, polygonal cross-section), a length and / or in a material. For example, a connecting element of a first type can be a nut. For example, a connecting element of a second type can be a sleeve.

[0047] Furthermore, reference is made herein to the overlapping of objects (e.g., bodies, contours, and / or cavities) with respect to a reference (e.g., direction or axis). In this regard, it can be understood that the objects overlap each other when projected along the reference onto a plane perpendicular to the reference. If a first object completely overlaps a second object, the projection of the second object can be arranged entirely within the projection of the first object, e.g., with respect to the cross-section and / or contour of the objects.

[0048] The term “comminution device” can be understood as an assembly configured to comminute materials (e.g., solids). The comminution device comprises a plurality of tools (also referred to as comminution tools or comminution devices) which interact (e.g., by means of movement) (e.g., meshing with one another or moving past one another) to comminute the materials. Exemplary implementations of the comminution tools include: gear, cutting wheel, knife, single tooth. Multiple teeth can, for example, be part of a gear (e.g., a crown gear or a spur gear) and / or surround an opening. In the case of a cutting tool (e.g., cutting tooth, cutting ring, or knife) as the comminution tool, the comminution device is also referred to as a cutting device, which is referred to herein as an exemplary comminution device with cutting teeth.In this regard, it can be understood that what has been described for the cutting unit can apply analogously to a differently configured crushing unit which does not necessarily have to have cutting teeth as crushing tools.

[0049] Reference is made herein to an exemplary pump housing having three housing sections, one of which provides a suction chamber. In this regard, it can be understood that the suction chamber is not absolutely necessary, but can improve the suction performance of the vacuum pump (e.g., the achievable negative pressure).

[0050] Fig.1 schematically illustrates a pump housing 100 (herein also referred to simply as housing 100) according to various embodiments in a side view or cross-sectional view (e.g. looking at the rotation axis 162).

[0051] The pump housing 100 has an inlet port 110 (also referred to as suction port 110 or fluid intake port) and an outlet port 120 (also referred to as disposal port 120 or fluid discharge port), which are connected to one another, for example, monolithically. The inlet port 110 can be configured to be fluidly coupled to a suction line (e.g., vacuum line). During operation, a fluid can be taken in by means of the inlet port 110 (e.g., by means of a channel arranged therein), for example into the pump housing 100 (e.g., into a suction chamber). The outlet port 120 can be configured to be fluidly coupled to an outlet line. For example, a fluid can be discharged by means of the outlet port 120 (e.g., by means of a channel arranged therein), for example out of the pump housing 100 (e.g., from a pressure chamber).

[0052] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 has an inlet-side housing section 130 (also referred to as the first housing section 130 or, for short, the suction section) that provides a suction chamber, the cavity of which (also referred to as the first cavity) is also referred to as the suction chamber. The inlet connection 110, e.g., a channel thereof, can open into the suction chamber.

[0053] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 has an output-side housing section 140 (also referred to as second housing section 140 or pressure section) which provides a pressure chamber, the cavity of which (also referred to as second cavity) is also referred to as a pressure chamber. The output connection 120, e.g., its channel, can open into the pressure chamber. Furthermore, the pressure section 140 can have a housing wall 141 (e.g., a chamber wall of the pressure chamber) (also referred to as the drive-side outer wall), which delimits the pressure chamber. The drive-side outer wall 141 can be penetrated by a shaft receiving opening 161, which opens into the pressure chamber. The shaft receiving opening 161 can be configured to receive a shaft, e.g., a drive shaft. For example, the shaft receiving opening can extend through the drive-side outer wall 141 along a rotational axis 162 of a shaft.

[0054] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 has an additional housing section 150 (also referred to as a third housing section 150 or working section) that provides a working chamber, the hollow space of which (also referred to as a third hollow space) is also referred to as the working chamber. The working chamber can be arranged between the pressure chamber and the suction chamber and / or fluidically couple them together. For this purpose, the working chamber can, for example, open into the pressure chamber and / or the suction chamber.

[0055] Clearly, the interior of the pump housing 100 comprises at least the working chamber, the pressure chamber and the suction chamber.

[0056] According to various embodiments, the working chamber and the rotation axis 162 can be configured relative to one another in a liquid ring configuration, wherein the pump housing 100 can then also be referred to as a liquid ring pump housing. In an exemplary implementation of the liquid ring configuration, the working chamber has a rotationally symmetrical lateral surface (also referred to as a surface of revolution) that encircles the rotation axis along a closed path, the axis of symmetry of which is arranged adjacent to the rotation axis 162. The rotation axis 162 can extend (e.g., centrally) through the shaft receiving opening 161, which is arranged non-concentrically to the lateral surface.

[0057] According to various embodiments, the working chamber, the pressure chamber, the suction chamber, and optionally also the inlet port 110 and / or the outlet port 120 can be formed monolithically. Alternatively or additionally, the inlet port 110 can protrude from the suction chamber and / or the outlet port 120 can protrude from the pressure chamber. For example, this allows the pump housing to be manufactured using a casting process, which saves costs. Alternatively or additionally, the monolithic manufacturing can simplify assembly because the risk of leakage is minimized.

[0058] According to various embodiments, the working chamber, the pressure chamber, the suction chamber, and optionally also the inlet port 110 and / or the outlet port 120 can comprise or be made of polyurethane. The pump housing, which comprises polyurethane, can be manufactured, for example, by means of a casting process. For example, polyurethane is more water-resistant than other plastics, such as polyamide, because polyamide tends to absorb water.

[0059] Figures 2A and 2B show various aspects of a pump housing 100 in an exemplary external view from a first perspective (Fig. 2A) obliquely from the front and a second perspective (Fig. 2B) obliquely from the rear. The suction chamber is shown schematically in Fig. 2A. The pressure chamber and the working chamber are concealed by an outer wall of the pump housing in the illustration.

[0060] The suction port 110 can be configured to be attached to an intake line. For example, the suction port 110 can have a diameter between 10 mm (millimeters) and 100 mm, e.g., between 25 mm and 75 mm, e.g., 50 mm. The disposal port 120 can be configured to be attached to an outlet line (also referred to as a disposal line). For example, the disposal port 120 can have a diameter between 10 mm and 100 mm, e.g., between 25 mm and 75 mm, e.g., 50 mm.

[0061] For example, a (e.g. metallic) sleeve, e.g. a threaded sleeve, can be integrated, e.g. cast in (e.g. in PUR), in the suction connection 110 and / or the disposal connection 120. For example, the sleeve can be a 1.5 inch threaded sleeve. The sleeve enables, for example, quick and / or flexible assembly of one of the suction connection 110 on the disposal line and / or the disposal connection 120 on the disposal line and / or increases the stability and service life. Fig. 2C shows an example of a suction connection 110 according to various embodiments, which has a pipe section (e.g. made of PUR) and a threaded sleeve 115 (e.g. made of steel or brass) cast therein.

[0062] The pump housing 100 optionally has (see also FIG.1A) a housing opening 170 (also referred to as inspection opening 170) which opens into the suction chamber.

[0063] The inspection opening 170 can be closed, for example, by means of a housing cover 171 (see, for example, FIG. 5A). For example, the suction section 130 can have a mounting surface 134 (also referred to as cover support surface 134) which surrounds the working chamber and which borders the inspection opening 170. Alternatively or additionally, the first cover support surface 134 can be at least partially (i.e., partially or completely) annular. For example, the pump housing 100, e.g., the suction section 130, can have a plurality of connecting elements 135 (e.g., each having an internal thread) which border the cover support surface 134 or are integrated into it (e.g., its PUR). For example, the plurality of connecting elements 135 can be integrated into the pump housing, e.g., into the suction section 130 (e.g., its PUR).The plurality of connecting elements 135 can be used, for example, to fasten the housing cover 171 within the inspection opening (see, for example, FIG. 5A).

[0064] In an exemplary implementation, the entire components within the pump housing (e.g., the complete internal components) can be removed through the inspection opening 170 (e.g., from the front), even in the case of a built-in pump and / or without disassembling the lines from the inlet port 110 or outlet port 120. This simplifies maintenance and repair.

[0065] The inspection opening 170 enables assembly and / or disassembly of other components (e.g., parts) of a vacuum pump, e.g., a pumping mechanism (e.g., an impeller, a cutting wheel, etc.), a partition wall, and / or a check valve, within the pump housing through the inspection opening. For example, the cross-section of the inspection opening can be larger than a cross-section of the suction chamber, and / or the working chamber, and / or the pressure chamber (see also Fig. 2E). This allows, for example, maintenance of a vacuum pump comprising the pump housing 100 according to various embodiments to be carried out without disassembling the suction line connected to the suction port 110 from the suction port and / or the disposal line connected to the disposal port 120 from the disposal port.

[0066] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 may include or be coupled to a vibration damper. The pump housing 100 may, for example, further include a base 101 having one or more connecting elements for being or to be mounted on the vibration damper. Alternatively or additionally, the base 101 may be configured to mount (e.g., fasten) the pump housing 100 (e.g., a pump including the pump housing) at a location of use. For example, the one or more connecting elements may be integrated into the base (e.g., its PUR).

[0067] Referring to Fig. 2B, the pump housing 100 can be configured to be coupled to a drive device configured to provide a torque. For this purpose, the drive-side outer wall 141, which is penetrated by the shaft receiving opening 161, can have one or more than one connecting element 141b on an outer side of the pump housing 100 opposite the pressure chamber, and optionally additionally one or more than one groove 141z, 141f. The torque can be guided into the interior of the pump housing by means of a shaft, which is received, for example, in the shaft receiving opening 161. The shaft receiving opening 161 can, for example, be rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation. Alternatively or additionally, the shaft receiving opening 161 can penetrate the drive-side outer wall 141 of the pressure section 140 and open into the pressure chamber. The connecting element 141b can, for example, be recessed into the drive-side outer wall 141 (e.g.its PUR). The connecting element 141 b can be used, for example, to attach a drive device to the pump housing, e.g., by screwing it thereto.

[0068] The one or more grooves 141z, 141f can, for example, comprise a centering groove 141z concentric with the rotational axis and / or a fixing groove 141f extending away from the rotational axis, each configured to receive a projection of the drive device mounted by means of the connecting element 141b. This facilitates assembly and can contribute to better distribution of forces resulting from the torque.

[0069] The centering groove 141z can, for example, correspond to a centering projection of the drive device (see, for example, FIG. 4), which can be inserted into the centering groove 141z. This allows the drive device, e.g., a shaft and / or a shaft connection of the drive device, to be aligned relative to the shaft receiving opening 161 when the centering projection is inserted into the centering groove 171z. For example, the centering groove 141z can be round, e.g., circular.

[0070] The fixing groove 141f can, for example, overlap with the centering groove 141z. For example, the drive device can have a fixing projection that corresponds to the fixing groove 141f. For example, the fixing groove 141f can be configured to fix the drive device with respect to the centering groove 141z when the fixing projection is inserted into the fixing groove 141f. For example, an overlap of the fixing groove 141f and the centering groove 141z can enable robust (e.g., unambiguous) positioning of the drive device relative to the pump housing 100.

[0071] FIG. 2D shows various aspects of the pump housing 100 in an exemplary sectional view (cut along the rotational axis 162) from the first perspective (cf. FIG. 2A) obliquely from the front. Shown are the suction chamber provided by the suction section 130, the working chamber provided by the working section 150, and the pressure chamber provided by the pressure section 140. Also shown are the suction port 110 and the inspection opening 170, which each open into the suction chamber, as well as the disposal port 120 and the shaft receiving opening 161, which each open into the pressure chamber.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the drive-side outer wall 141 can have a mounting projection 142 that projects into the pressure space of the pressure chamber and is penetrated by the shaft through-opening 161 and / or delimits the shaft through-opening 161, e.g., completely circumferentially. For example, the mounting projection can extend parallel to the axis of rotation 162, which can be introduced through the shaft through-opening 161 into the interior of the pump housing. The mounting projection 142 enables, for example, robust positioning of the shaft within the shaft through-opening 161. According to various embodiments, the mounting projection 142 can be manufactured monolithically (e.g., in one piece) with the drive-side outer wall 141. According to various embodiments, the mounting projection 142 can be configured to receive or at least partially provide a seal (also referred to as a motor seal).For example, the mounting projection 142 can have a (e.g., annular) recess 142d (also referred to as a seal receiving recess) in which a seal, e.g., a mechanical seal, can be positioned. For example, the mounting projection can have a groove as a seal receiving recess to accommodate a ring seal (e.g., a mechanical seal) as a motor seal. The mounting projection facilitates installation and increases the protection of the ring seal. By means of the motor seal, a gap arranged in the shaft through-opening 161 between the drive-side outer wall 141 and the shaft can be sealed when the shaft is arranged in the shaft through-opening 161.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, the mounting projection can be designed as a connecting flange, e.g. for a shaft of a drive device, which is integrated into the pump housing (e.g. its PUR).

[0074] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 can be configured such that a plurality of components (e.g., a pumping mechanism, a check valve, a partition wall, and / or a mounting element, etc.) can be introduced into an interior of the pump housing 100 (also referred to as the housing interior) through the inspection opening 170 and / or removed from the interior of the pump housing 100. For some components, the pump housing 100 can have a mounting surface to which the respective component can be mounted in the housing interior. For example, the suction section 130 can have the first mounting surface 134 (e.g., as part of a flange), as described herein.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, the pressure section 140 can have a second mounting surface 144 (e.g., as part of a flange) that surrounds the pressure chamber and adjoins the working chamber. For example, the second mounting surface 144 can be annular. For example, the pump housing 100, e.g., the pressure section 140, can have a plurality of connecting elements 145 that adjoin the second mounting surface 144. The plurality of connecting elements 145 can, for example, be integrated into the pump housing, e.g., into the pressure section 140 (e.g., its PUR). The plurality of connecting elements 145 can, for example, be used to fasten an outlet-side partition wall 180 inside the housing, e.g., adjacent to the mounting surface 144 (see also FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B).

[0076] Alternatively or additionally, the working section 150 can have a third mounting surface 154 which surrounds the working chamber and which borders the suction chamber. For example, the third mounting surface 154 can be annular. For example, the pump housing 100, e.g. the working section 150, can have a plurality of connecting elements 155 which border the third mounting surface 154. The plurality of connecting elements 155 can, for example, be integrated into the pump housing, e.g. into the working section 150 (e.g. its PUR). The plurality of connecting elements 145 can, for example, be used to fasten an inlet-side partition wall 190 in the housing interior, e.g. adjacent to the mounting surface 154 (see also FIG. 5A). FIG.2E shows various aspects of a pump housing 100 in a schematic front view from the direction of the inspection opening 170, in which the surfaces of the pump housing 100 which delimit the housing interior are shown as a projection onto a surface arranged transversely to the axis of rotation.

[0077] As illustrated, a cross-sectional area of ​​the pressure chamber can be smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the working chamber and / or completely overlapped by it. The pressure section 140 can further comprise the drive-side outer wall 141 and the second mounting surface 144, each of which is accessible at least partially through the inspection opening and the pump housing (e.g., the suction chamber and working chamber). This facilitates, for example, maintenance work and / or assembly work within the pressure chamber.

[0078] For example, the pressure chamber can be delimited at least in sections by means of the outlet-side partition 180 (not shown here) if it is arranged inside the housing. The outlet-side partition 180 can, for example, be mounted on the second mounting surface 144 and / or passed through the inspection opening.

[0079] For example, a cross-sectional area of ​​the working chamber may be smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the suction chamber. The working section 150 may further include the second mounting surface 154, which is accessible at least partially through the inspection opening and the pump housing (e.g., the suction chamber). This facilitates, for example, maintenance work and / or assembly work within the working chamber.

[0080] For example, the working space can be delimited at least partially by means of the inlet-side partition 190 (not shown here) if this is arranged inside the housing. The second partition 180 can, for example, be mounted on the third mounting surface 154 and / or passed through the inspection opening.

[0081] For example, a cross-sectional area of ​​the suction chamber may be smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the inspection opening 170. The suction section 130 may further include the first mounting surface 134 adjacent to the inspection opening. This facilitates, for example, maintenance work and / or assembly work within the suction chamber.

[0082] For example, the suction chamber can be closed by means of the housing cover 171, see also FIG.5A, which can be mounted adjacent to the first mounting surface 134.

[0083] By way of example, FIG. 2E shows the first, second, and third cavities arranged concentrically with one another. However, it is understood that the embodiment of the pump housing 100 is not limited to such a concentric arrangement; any other arrangement is also possible that allows the respective cavities to be accessible through the inspection opening and to be separated from one another in sections by means of mountable partition walls. For example, the shaft passage opening 161, the suction chamber, the pressure chamber, and / or the inspection opening 170 can be arranged concentrically with one another, and the working chamber can be arranged eccentrically with one another (see, for example, FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C).

[0084] According to various embodiments, the pump housing can be configured as a liquid ring pump housing. To ensure this, for example, the shaft passage opening 161 can be arranged decentrally, relative to a central (e.g., a geometric center) of a cross-section of the working chamber or at least a round (e.g., circular) section of the cross-section of the working chamber, within the drive-side outer wall 141.

[0085] FIG.2F shows various aspects of a pump housing 100 in a sectional view from below. Shown are the multiple housing sections 130, 140, 150, as well as the shaft passage opening 161, the suction port 110, and the discharge port 120.

[0086] According to various embodiments, the suction port 110 can be sealed from the interior of the pump housing by means of a check valve. For example, the pump housing 100 can have a valve seat 131, which is adjacent to the channel of the inlet port and / or the suction chamber. The valve seat 131 can, for example, be part of the suction chamber, e.g., the suction section 130s.

[0087] The valve seat 131 can be configured such that the check valve can be attached thereto to seal the suction port 110, e.g., the channel (also referred to as the suction channel) thereof. For example, the valve seat 131 can be arranged adjacent to an opening of the suction port 110, by means of which the suction port 110, e.g., the suction channel thereof, opens into the suction chamber.

[0088] According to various embodiments, the valve seat 131 can have one or more connecting elements 131b, by means of which the check valve can be attached. For example, the connecting element 131b can be integrated into the pump housing 100, e.g., into the suction section 130 (e.g., its PUR). This allows, for example, the check valve to be mounted within the pump housing 100, e.g., through the inspection opening 170.

[0089] This allows, for example, easy access to the check valve, e.g., through the inspection opening 170. This can, for example, reduce the maintenance and / or assembly effort of a vacuum pump having the pump housing according to various embodiments, since the check valve can be serviced and / or replaced without having to remove the vacuum pump from a suction line or a disposal line. FIG. 3 shows various aspects of a check valve in a schematic view. The check valve can, for example, be configured to seal the suction connection. This makes it easier, for example, to maintain a negative pressure within the line.

[0090] For example, the check valve may comprise or be formed from polyurethane, e.g., elastic polyurethane. Polyurethane may, for example, have better durability than acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (also known as NBR), which may, for example, lead to defects more quickly due to frequent opening and closing of the check valve. Thus, the use of polyurethane can extend the period during which the negative pressure can be maintained in a line separated thereby from the suction chamber (e.g., the intake line). The check valve may comprise a flap valve 300, e.g., flap valve 300 may comprise a valve flap 310, a mounting base 320, and a joint 330.

[0091] The valve flap 310 can, for example, be configured to cover the outlet opening of the suction port, e.g., to seal the suction port. For example, in an operating state of a vacuum pump having the flap valve 300, a negative pressure can be maintained within a suction line after the suction port 110 is closed by the valve flap 310 (e.g., due to a negative pressure within the line and / or a restoring force provided by the joint 330).

[0092] The mounting base 320 can be configured to be fastened to the pump housing, e.g., the valve seat thereof, according to various embodiments. For example, the mounting base 320 can have a mounting opening 321. For example, a mounting element of the positive connection type, e.g., a machine screw, can be passed through the mounting opening 321 to be fastened to a connecting element, e.g., the connecting element 131b of the valve seat 131. This makes it possible, for example, to dispense with additional components, such as a separate flap holder. However, it can be understood that a washer can optionally be arranged between the machine screw and the mounting base 320, which improves the force transmission.

[0093] The mounting base 320 and the valve flap 310 can be connected to one another by means of the joint 330. For example, the joint 330 can be configured to mount the valve flap 310 movably, e.g., elastically, relative to the mounting base 320. For example, the joint 330 can be configured to provide the valve flap 310 with a restoring force, by means of which the valve flap 310 can be guided to an opening to be closed in order to close a line connected thereto.

[0094] According to various embodiments, the check valve, e.g., the flap valve 300, can be at least partially monolithic and / or at least partially made of (e.g., elastic) polyurethane. For example, at least the joint 330 is made of (e.g., elastic) polyurethane. Alternatively or additionally, the valve flap 310, the mounting base 320, and the joint 330 can be monolithic and / or made of polyurethane. According to various embodiments, the joint 330 can have a groove 331 at which the flap valve 300 is reversibly deformable, e.g., bendable. For example, the flap valve 300 can have a smaller material thickness at the groove 331 than in the mounting base 320 and / or in the valve flap 310. As a result, the valve flap 310 can be moved along the groove 331 relative to the mounting base 320 in one direction, e.g., due to an external force (e.g., due to a negative pressure).Furthermore, the joint 320 provides a restoring force by means of which the valve flap 310 can be moved back to the starting position in the opposite direction.

[0095] FIG. 4 shows various aspects of a drive device 490 in a schematic view. The drive device 490 can be configured to supply torque to a pumping mechanism mounted within the pump housing 100. According to various embodiments, the drive device 490 can include a shaft coupling 492. By means of the shaft coupling 492, the drive device can be coupled to a shaft 410, which is received in the shaft-receiving opening during operation.

[0096] According to various embodiments, the drive device 490 may comprise a motor 491, e.g. an electric motor, which is configured to drive the shaft 410 by means of the shaft coupling 492, e.g. to drive its rotational movement about the rotation axis.

[0097] According to various embodiments, the drive device 490 can be fastened to the pump housing 100 according to various embodiments, e.g., to the drive-side outer wall 141. For example, the drive device 490 can have a centering projection 494v that corresponds to the centering groove 141z, e.g., can be inserted into it. For example, the centering projection 494v can fit positively into the centering groove 141z. This allows, for example, the drive device 490 to be aligned relative to the pump housing 100 so that the shaft coupling 492 (and thus the shaft 410) can be passed through the shaft receiving opening 161.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the drive device 490 may have a fixing projection (not shown) that corresponds to the fixing groove 141f, e.g., can be inserted into it. For example, the fixing projection may fit positively into the fixing groove 141f.

[0099] According to various embodiments, the drive device 490 can have a mounting opening 494m. For example, a mounting element of the positive connection type, e.g., a machine screw, can be passed through the mounting opening 494m to be fastened to a connecting element, e.g., the connecting element 141b of the drive-side outer wall 141. This makes it possible, for example, to fasten the drive device 490 to the pump housing 100 (e.g., by means of machine screws). FIG. 5A shows various aspects of a vacuum pump 500, referred to as pump 500 for short, in a schematic sectional view. The pump 500 can have the pump housing 100 according to various embodiments.

[0100] According to various embodiments, the vacuum pump 500 may be configured to provide a vacuum in a fluid source connected thereto, e.g., having a pipe system.

[0101] For example, the vacuum pump can be configured to evacuate a fluid, e.g., a fluid mixture of a liquid and a gas (and / or a solid), from the device via the suction port 110 and to pump it into a disposal line via the disposal port 120. For example, the vacuum pump 500 can be configured to pump wastewater into a disposal line of the sewer system.

[0102] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 can have a first partition 180 and a second partition 190, by means of which the housing interior can be separated into subchambers. The first partition 180 can separate the pressure chamber (or a subchamber thereof) from the working chamber (or a subchamber thereof). The second partition 190 can separate the suction chamber (or a subchamber thereof) from the working chamber (or a subchamber thereof).

[0103] The pump 500 may include a pumping mechanism 400 disposed at least partially within the pump housing 100. The pumping mechanism 400 may, for example, include a shaft 410 (not shown), an impeller 430, and optionally a cutting wheel 420. For example, the cutting wheel 420 and / or the impeller 430 may be mounted on the shaft 410.

[0104] For example, the pump 500 may further comprise the check valve, e.g., the flap valve 300, which is arranged within the pump housing 100, e.g., within the suction section 130.

[0105] According to various embodiments, the components of the pump arranged within the pump housing 100, such as the pumping mechanism 400 and / or the check valve, can be passed through the inspection opening 170 of the pump housing 100 in order to assemble or disassemble them. This enables, for example, maintenance, assembly, and / or disassembly of these components by removing the housing cover 171. For example, unlike conventional pumps, the vacuum pump 500 does not have to be removed from a suction line or a discharge line in order to perform maintenance on the components within the vacuum pump 500. Thus, maintenance time can be reduced, making maintenance more efficient (e.g., more cost-effective, faster, easier).

[0106] According to various embodiments, the housing cover 171 can be translucent (in which case also referred to as inspection glass). For example, the housing cover 171 can comprise or consist of glass (e.g., Plexiglas or quartz glass). For example, the housing cover 171 can comprise or consist of Plexiglas (e.g., PVC-U). This enables, for example, a visual inspection of the pumping unit 400 and / or the check valve within the pump housing 100 without opening the pump housing 100, e.g., during ongoing operation of the pump 500. Thus, for example, any solids, contaminants, or malfunctions (e.g., due to a jammed check valve or the cutting unit) can be visually assessed. This can reduce maintenance times because opening the pump is not absolutely necessary to visually assess the condition of the components within the pump.This makes it possible, for example, to prepare suitable solutions before opening the pump (e.g. ordering spare parts).

[0107] For example, the housing cover 171 can be sealed by means of a gasket, e.g., an O-ring. For example, the housing cover 171 can be attached to the pump housing 100, e.g., by means of the connecting elements 135 of the suction section 130, by means of mounting elements (not shown), such as machine screws.

[0108] Furthermore, the pump 500 can have the drive device 490. The drive device 490 can be attached to the pump housing 100, e.g., to the drive-side outer wall 141. For example, the centering projection 494v of the drive device 490 can be inserted into the centering groove 141z on the drive-side outer wall 141 (e.g., in a form-fitting manner). This allows, for example, the shaft coupling 492 and / or the shaft 410 to protrude through the shaft receiving opening 161. For example, the shaft 410 can have a rotation axis 162 to which an orientation of the shaft receiving opening 161 and / or the mounting projection 142 corresponds.

[0109] FIG.5B shows various aspects of the vacuum pump 500 in a schematic sectional view, wherein the impeller 430, the cutting wheel 420, the second partition wall 190 and the housing cover 171 are not mounted, e.g. not yet mounted.

[0110] According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 can have the first partition 180. The first partition 180 can be configured to at least partially separate the pressure chamber from the working chamber. The first partition 180 can abut the second mounting surface 144. For example, the first partition 180 can have one or more mounting openings 185 that correspond to the plurality of connecting elements 145 of the pressure section 140. This makes it possible, for example, to mount the first partition on the second mounting surface 144 (e.g., by means of mounting elements). For example, a seal, e.g., an O-ring, can be arranged between the first partition 180 and the second mounting surface 144. For example, the first partition 180 can be inserted through the inspection opening 170 into the pump housing 100, e.g., mounted therein.For example, the first partition wall 180 can be removed from the pump housing 100 through the inspection opening 170, e.g., dismantled therefrom.

[0111] According to various embodiments, the first partition wall 180 can be penetrated by a first through-opening 181 (also referred to as a fluid exchange opening). For example, the fluid exchange opening 181 can be arranged concentrically to a circumferential contour of the first partition wall 180 and / or to the cross-section of the working chamber, but this is not necessary. Alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the fluid exchange opening 181 can be aligned with the shaft receiving opening when the first partition wall 180 rests against the second mounting surface.

[0112] For example, the shaft 410 can extend through the fluid exchange opening. For example, the shaft 410 can be positioned eccentrically within the fluid exchange opening. For example, the fluid exchange opening 181 can be configured such that the shaft 410 can protrude through the portion of the fluid exchange opening 181 into the working chamber. For example, the fluid exchange opening 181 can further be configured such that the fluid exchange opening 181 has an additional portion arranged adjacent to the shaft 410. For example, the fluid exchange opening 181 can have a larger diameter than the shaft 410. For example, the additional portion of the fluid exchange opening 181 can provide a fluid-conducting connection between the working chamber and the pressure chamber.This allows, for example, a fluid pumped by pump 500 to flow from the working chamber into the pressure chamber (e.g., in a liquid ring configuration). For example, a spacer mounted on shaft 410 can extend along shaft 410 through the fluid exchange opening.

[0113] Furthermore, FIG. 5B shows that the check valve, e.g., flap valve 300, can be mounted within the suction chamber, e.g., on valve seat 131 (not shown). For example, the check valve can be inserted through the inspection opening into the suction chamber, e.g., into the suction space (and, for example, mounted therein) and / or removed therefrom (and, for example, dismantled therefrom), e.g., after dismantling the housing cover 171. During operation of the pump, valve flap 310 can close, e.g., seal, the suction line connected to suction port 110. Thus, it can be held, for example, within the suction line.

[0114] For example, the check valve can release the suction port 110 by moving the valve flap 310 toward the suction chamber (e.g., by means of the joint 330). The movement of the valve flap 310 can be triggered, for example, by a negative pressure within the suction chamber.

[0115] Illustratively, the valve flap 310 can thereby be drawn into the suction chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the valve flap 310 can be moved due to a pressure acting on the valve flap 310 from the direction of the suction port 110. Illustratively, the valve flap 310 can thereby be pushed into the suction chamber (e.g., due to a fluid column pressing on the valve flap 310). After the valve flap has been opened, it can be moved back toward the suction port by means of a restoring force provided by the joint 330 in order to close it.

[0116] FIGS. 5C, 5D and 5E each show various aspects of the vacuum pump 500 in a schematic sectional view from one side, with the area 5D of FIG. 5C being shown enlarged in FIG. 5D and the area 5E of FIG. 5C being shown enlarged in FIG. 5E.

[0117] According to various embodiments, the vacuum pump 500 has the pumping unit 400, which can be or can be arranged within the pump housing 100. The pumping unit 400 can, for example, have a shaft 410 (not shown). According to various embodiments, the pumping unit 400 can have the impeller 430 and / or the cutting wheel 420, which can be arranged, e.g., fastened, on the shaft 410. Optionally, the pumping unit can have a spacer 440 and a seal 450, which can each be pushed onto the shaft. For example, the components of the pumping unit 400 (e.g., as a unit or in individual parts) can be brought into or out of the housing interior through the inspection opening 170. For example, several components of the pumping unit 400 can be provided assembled to one another as a unit, which is brought into or out of the pump housing 100 through the inspection opening 170.This means, for example, that maintenance time can be reduced because entire component groups can be assembled and / or disassembled simultaneously.

[0118] In FIG.5D, the area 5D of the vacuum pump 500 from FIG.5C, which shows the seal 450 and the spacer 440, is shown enlarged.

[0119] According to various embodiments, the seal 450 can be pushed onto the shaft 410. For example, the seal 450 can be configured to be positioned within the mounting projection 142. The seal 450 enables, for example, the pump housing 100 to be sealed against the drive device 490. This can, for example, prevent a fluid from escaping from the pressure chamber through the shaft receiving opening 161. For example, the seal 450 can be a mechanical seal. The mechanical seal can, for example, have a spring that provides pressure to the mechanical seal to assist in maintaining the seal tightness of the mechanical seal.

[0120] According to various embodiments, the seal 450 may be configured to position the shaft 410 centrally within the shaft receiving opening 161.

[0121] According to various embodiments, the spacer 440 can be arranged between the impeller 430 and the seal 450 on the shaft 410. For example, the spacer 440 can have or be a sleeve (e.g., a through sleeve, a spacer sleeve). For example, the spacer 440 can be configured to hold the impeller 430 within the working chamber. For example, a length of the spacer can be configured such that the impeller is positioned within the working chamber. The spacer enables, for example, the pumping mechanism 400 to be adapted to different pumps according to various embodiments, which differ from one another, for example, with regard to a length of the pumping chamber (e.g., measured along the rotational axis 162 of the shaft 410). For example, with a longer pumping chamber, a correspondingly longer shaft 410 and a longer spacer 440 can be used.For example, the spacer 440 may protrude through the first through-opening 191 of the first partition wall 190.

[0122] In FIG. 5E, the area 5E of the vacuum pump 500 from FIG. 5C, which shows the second partition 190 and the cutting wheel 420, is shown enlarged. According to various embodiments, the pump housing 100 can have the second partition 190. The second partition 190 can be configured to at least partially separate the working chamber from the suction chamber. The second partition 190 can rest on the third mounting surface 154. For example, the second partition 190 can have one or more mounting openings 195 (see, for example, FIG. 5F) that correspond to the plurality of connecting elements 155 of the working section 150. This makes it possible, for example, to mount the second partition 190 on the third mounting surface 154 (e.g., by means of mounting elements). For example, a seal, e.g., an O-ring, can be arranged between the second partition 190 and the third mounting surface 154.For example, the second partition wall 190 can be inserted into the pump housing 100 through the inspection opening 170, e.g., mounted therein. For example, the second partition wall 190 can be removed from the pump housing 100 through the inspection opening 170, e.g., disassembled therefrom.

[0123] According to various embodiments, the second partition wall 190 can be penetrated by a second through-opening 191. For example, the second through-opening 191 can be arranged concentrically within the second partition wall 190. For example, when the second partition wall 190 rests against the third mounting surface 154, the second through-opening 191 can be aligned with the shaft-receiving opening 161.

[0124] Optionally, the second partition wall 190 can have one or more than one cutting tooth 192 on the second through-opening 191 (then also referred to as cutting wall 190). For example, the or each cutting tooth 192 can be a monolithic part of the second partition wall 190. For example, the or each cutting tooth 192 can protrude into the suction chamber, e.g. along the axis of rotation 162 of the shaft 410, when the second partition wall 190 rests against the third mounting surface 154. For example, the or each cutting tooth 192 can be arranged next to the second through-opening 191. For example, the or each cutting tooth 192 can delimit the second through-opening 191 at least in sections. For example, several cutting teeth can surround the through-opening 191 at least in sections.

[0125] According to various embodiments, the pumping unit 400 may include the cutting wheel 420. The cutting wheel 420 may be mounted on the shaft 410. For example, the cutting wheel 420 may be mounted on the shaft 410 by means of a mounting element 421, e.g., a machine screw, a bolt, or the like (see, for example, FIG. 5G). For example, the cutting wheel may be mounted on and / or cover an end face, e.g., a first end face, of the shaft 410.

[0126] According to various embodiments, the cutting wheel 420 can have a plurality of cutting teeth 422. The plurality of cutting teeth can protrude outward in a radial direction from a rotational axis 162 of the shaft 410 (and thus a rotational axis of the cutting wheel 420). For example, two adjacent ones of the plurality of cutting teeth 422 can each be spaced apart from one another. According to various embodiments, the cutting tooth 192 of the cutting wall 190 and the cutting wheel 420 together can form a cutting unit. The cutting unit is configured to comminute solids that enter the suction chamber together with a fluid before they are pumped into the working chamber. The cutting unit (or at least its cutting teeth) can, for example, be formed from metal, e.g., steel, and / or have one or more than one cutting edge.

[0127] When the cutting wheel 420 is mounted on the shaft 410, it can protrude through the second through-opening 191 of the second separating plate 190 or at least into it. For example, the cutting teeth of the second separating plate 190 can surround the cutting wheel 420. For example, one or more through-openings 425 can be formed within the second through-opening 191 between the cutting wheel 420 and the second separating plate 190. For example, the one or more through-openings 425 can each be delimited by two adjacent cutting teeth 422 of the cutting wheel 422 and an edge of the second separating plate 190 that borders the second through-opening 191.

[0128] During operation of the vacuum pump, the fluid from the suction chamber can flow through the one or more passage openings into the working chamber. The cutting wheel rotates together with the shaft relative to the second partition wall 190. This enables the cutting wheel 420 and the second partition wall 190 (e.g., by means of the cutting tooth 192) to jointly break down solid contaminants before they can pass through the one or more passage openings. For example, the one or more passage openings can thus provide a defined passage that defines, for example, a maximum size for solid contaminants.

[0129] For example, the working chamber can be separated from the suction chamber by means of the second partition wall 190 and the cutting wheel 420. For example, the working chamber and the suction chamber can be fluidly connected to one another by means of one or more passage openings.

[0130] FIG. 5F shows various aspects of the vacuum pump 500 in a schematic sectional view from a front view. Examples include the suction chamber, e.g., the suction section 130, the second partition wall 190, the cutting wheel 420, and the check valve, e.g., the flap valve 300.

[0131] The second partition wall 190 may have a plurality of mounting openings 195 corresponding to the connecting elements 155 of the third mounting surface 154. For example, the second partition wall may be mounted using a positive-locking type mounting element that is mounted through one of the plurality of mounting openings 195 into the corresponding connecting element 155 of the third mounting surface 154.

[0132] For example, one or more cutting teeth 192 may protrude from the second partition wall 190 into the suction chamber. The cutting teeth may, for example, be adjacent to the second through-opening 191. For example, the second through-opening 191 may be arranged centrally within the second partition wall 190.

[0133] For example, the cutting wheel 420 may be disposed within the second through-opening 191. The cutting wheel 420 may have a plurality of cutting teeth 422, each of which may be spaced apart from one another.

[0134] For example, the plurality of passage openings 425 can be formed between the cutting wheel 420 and the passage opening 191, through which the suction chamber is fluidly connected to the working chamber.

[0135] FIG. 5G shows various aspects of the vacuum pump 500 in a schematic sectional view from below. The drive device 490 and the pump housing 100 according to various embodiments are shown by way of example, in which the check valve, the pumping mechanism 400, the first partition wall 180, and the second partition wall 190 are mounted.

[0136] The pumping unit 400 may include the cutting wheel 420. The cutting wheel 420 may be mounted on a first end face of the shaft 410 by means of a mounting element 421 (e.g., a machine screw, a bolt, a rivet). For example, the shaft may have a first mounting opening 411 on the first end face, in which the mounting element 421 can be secured.

[0137] For example, the first fastening opening 411 can have a thread. For example, the shaft can have a second fastening opening 412 on the second end face, by means of which the shaft can be coupled to the shaft coupling 492 of the drive device 490. For example, the second end face can be opposite the first end face.

[0138] FIG.6A shows various aspects of the impeller 430 in a schematic sectional view.

[0139] According to various embodiments, the impeller 430 can have a rotational axis 431. Furthermore, the impeller 430 can be penetrated by a shaft mounting opening 432 along the rotational axis 431. For example, the impeller 430 can be positioned on the shaft 410 by means of the shaft mounting opening 432, e.g., slipped onto the shaft. For example, a cross-section of the shaft mounting opening 432 can correspond to a cross-section of the shaft 410. For example, the impeller 430 can be positioned on the shaft 410 by means of the shaft mounting opening 432 (e.g., positioned in a form-fitting manner). For example, the shaft mounting opening 432 can be configured in a form-fitting manner with respect to a corresponding shaft. For example, the shaft mounting opening 432 can have a first diameter d1. For example, the diameter d1 can correspond to an outer diameter of the shaft 410 on which the impeller can be positioned.

[0140] For example, the impeller 430 can have a first opening 435 on a first end face, into which the shaft mounting opening 432 opens. For example, the cutting wheel 420 can be positioned at least partially in the first opening 435 in a form-fitting manner. For example, the impeller can have a first center diameter z1 on the first end face.

[0141] For example, the impeller 430 can have a second opening 436 on a second end face opposite the first end face, into which the shaft mounting opening 432 opens. For example, the spacer 440 and / or the seal 450 of the pumping unit 400 can be positioned at least partially in the second opening 436 (e.g., positioned in a form-fitting manner). For example, the impeller can have a second center diameter z2 on the second end face.

[0142] According to various embodiments, the first center diameter may be smaller than the second center diameter.

[0143] According to various embodiments, the impeller 430 may include a thread 433. The thread 433 may extend outwardly from a center 430z of the impeller surrounding the shaft mounting opening 432, e.g., in a radial direction away from the impeller's rotational axis 431. For example, the thread 433 may extend along a helical (e.g., helical) path that extends around the impeller's rotational axis 431. For example, an outer edge of the thread 433 may define an outer diameter d2 of the impeller 430. For example, the outer diameter d2 may be substantially constant along the rotational axis (e.g., vary by less than 10%, e.g., vary by less than 5%, e.g., vary by less than 1%).

[0144] According to various embodiments, the thread 433 may taper along the helical path (e.g., from the first end face to the second end face). For example, the impeller may have a thread wall surface 433a that defines the thread 433. For example, the thread wall surface 433a (also referred to as thread surface for short) may have a width. For example, the width of the thread wall surface 433a may decrease along the path.

[0145] The impeller may have a first section I, a second section II, and a third section III. For example, the first section I may be closer to the first end face of the impeller 430 than the second section II, and the second section II may be closer to the first end face than the third section III.

[0146] According to various embodiments, the thread wall surface 433a may have a first width b1 in the first section I, a second width b2 in the second section II, and a third width b3 in the third section III. For example, the first width b1 may be greater than the second width b2, and the second width b2 may be greater than the third width b3. This, for example, increases a delivery rate that can be achieved by means of the impeller 430.

[0147] According to various embodiments, the thread wall surface of the first section I can have a first distance a1 from the thread wall surface of the second section II, and the thread wall surface of the second section II can have a second distance a2 from the thread wall surface of the third section III. For example, the second distance a2 can be smaller than the first distance a1. This increases, for example, a delivery rate that can be achieved by means of the impeller 430.

[0148] According to various embodiments, the threaded wall surface 433a can be arranged at an angle 432 to the rotational axis 431 of the impeller. For example, the angle 432 can be between 70° and 85°, e.g., between 77° and 83°, e.g., approximately 80°. This makes it possible, for example, to increase the flow rate that can be achieved by means of the impeller 430.

[0149] According to various embodiments, the impeller 430 may comprise or consist of polyurethane. This allows, for example, the impeller to be manufactured using a casting process.

[0150] FIG.6B shows various aspects of the impeller 430 in a technical drawing, illustrating exemplary dimensions of the impeller 430.

[0151] FIG.6C shows various aspects of the impeller 430 in a schematic front view, showing an exemplary cross-section of the shaft mounting opening 432.

[0152] FIG.6D shows various aspects of the impeller 430 in a schematic perspective side view, illustrating, by way of example, a transition from the first opening 435 to the shaft mounting opening 432.

[0153] FIG.7 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 700 for handling a pump housing described herein according to various embodiments. The method 700 may include, in 710, displacing (e.g., inserting and / or removing) the check valve through the housing opening into or out of the suction chamber, e.g., into the first cavity. The method may further include, in 720, mounting or dismounting the check valve in the suction chamber, e.g., at the suction section, if the check valve is arranged in the suction chamber, e.g., in the first cavity.

[0154] FIG. 8 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 800 for handling a vacuum pump described herein according to various embodiments. The method 800 may include, in 810, moving (i.e., displacing) the pumping mechanism through the suction chamber, e.g., through the suction space, into or out of the working chamber, e.g., the working space. Furthermore, the method 800 may include, in 820, mounting the pumping mechanism on a drive device or dismounting it therefrom if the pumping mechanism is at least partially arranged in the working chamber, e.g., the working space.

[0155] For example, the pumping mechanism can be moved through the suction chamber if the suction chamber, the working chamber, and the pressure chamber are joined together (e.g., adjacent to one another). Alternatively or additionally, the pumping mechanism can be moved through the suction chamber if a (e.g., stationary) piping system is coupled to a connection of the housing, e.g., a suction line to the suction connection and / or a discharge line to the discharge connection.

[0156] FIG. 9 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 900 for operating a vacuum pump described herein according to various embodiments. The method 900 may include, in 910, driving a rotary movement of the pumping mechanism. The method may further include, in 920, supplying (e.g., to the pumping mechanism) a liquid by means of the suction port. For example, the supply of the liquid may be stimulated by means of the rotary movement of the pumping mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, the formation of a liquid ring in the working chamber may be stimulated by means of the rotary movement of the pumping mechanism.

[0157] It can be understood that the sections of the pump housing interior described herein as separate cavities, which, for example, are adjacent to one another, can be separated from one another, e.g., by means of an edge, a ledge, a partition, or at least a mounting surface. In this regard, it can be understood that what has been described here can apply analogously to an interior of the pump housing that has fewer or more cavities.

[0158] Reference is made herein to an exemplary pump housing having two or more housing sections, one of which provides a working chamber and another of which provides a suction chamber, which differs from the working chamber (e.g., geometrically), e.g., is separated and / or offset (e.g., separated by an edge, a ledge, a partition, or at least a mounting surface). In this regard, it can be understood that the suction chamber is not absolutely necessary, but can improve the suction performance of the vacuum pump (e.g., the achievable negative pressure). In that case, the suction chamber can be omitted or not separated from the working chamber. Then, the first housing section can provide the working chamber and / or be adjacent to the second housing section (e.g., be monolithically connected to it). For this exemplary implementation (without a suction chamber), what is described herein can apply analogously.Omitting the suction chamber reduces the size of the pump housing, thus reducing the required installation space and / or manufacturing costs. Omitting the suction chamber allows the shredding mechanism, for example, to be omitted. If the pump housing does not have a (separate) suction chamber, the suction chamber can optionally be provided via a pipe connected to the inlet connection. This at least partially compensates for the reduced suction capacity.

[0159] In the following, various examples are described which refer to those described above and those shown in the figures.

[0160] Example 1 is a pump housing, which can comprise: an inlet connection; an outlet connection; several (i.e. two or more, e.g. exactly three or more) housing sections, of which: a first housing section has a first cavity (e.g. providing the suction chamber or working chamber) into which the inlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens; a second housing section has a second cavity into which the outlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens, and preferably has a housing wall delimiting the second cavity (e.g. providing the pressure chamber), which is penetrated (e.g. along a rotational axis and / or towards the first housing section, e.g. its first cavity) by a shaft receiving opening for receiving a drive shaft; and an optional third housing section is arranged between the first housing section and the second housing section and has a third cavity (e.g.providing the working chamber) which opens into the first cavity and the second cavity (or at least connects them to one another in a fluid-conducting manner); wherein the shaft receiving opening (and / or the axis of rotation) and at least one cavity (e.g. the geometry thereof) of the plurality of housing sections (e.g. the second and / or the third cavity) are arranged relative to one another, for example, according to a liquid ring configuration (then the pump housing is also referred to as a liquid ring pump housing); wherein at least two (i.e. two or more) of the plurality (e.g. the plurality) housing sections (and, for example, the inlet connection and / or the outlet connection) or at least one or more than one housing wall thereof are monolithic and / or formed from polyurethane (or at least comprise polyurethane).

[0161] Example 2 is a pump housing, which can comprise: an inlet connection; an outlet connection; several (e.g. exactly two, three or more) housing sections, of which: a first housing section comprises a first cavity, in which the inlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens; a second housing section comprises a second cavity, in which the outlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens, and preferably comprises a housing wall delimiting the second cavity, which (e.g. along a rotational axis and / or to the first housing section, e.g.its first cavity) is penetrated by a shaft receiving opening for receiving a drive shaft; and an optional third housing section is arranged between the first housing section and the second housing section and has a third cavity which opens into the first cavity and the second cavity (or at least connects them to one another in a fluid-conducting manner); wherein the optional third cavity (e.g. a cross-sectional area thereof) is completely overlapped by the first cavity (e.g. a cross-sectional area thereof) along the axis of rotation.

[0162] Example 3 is a pump housing, which can have: an inlet connection; an outlet connection; a housing opening; a housing interior, which extends from the housing opening (e.g. along a rotational axis and / or towards the first housing section, e.g. its first cavity) into several (i.e. two or more, e.g. exactly three or more) housing sections, of which: a first housing section has a first section of the housing interior (also referred to as the first cavity), in which the inlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens; a second housing section has a second section of the housing interior (also referred to as the second cavity), in which the outlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens, and preferably has a housing wall delimiting the second cavity, which extends (e.g. along a rotational axis and / or towards the first housing section, e.g.its first cavity) is penetrated by a shaft receiving opening for receiving a drive shaft; and an optional third housing section is arranged between the first housing section and the second housing section and has an optional third section of the housing interior (also referred to as a third cavity).

[0163] Example 4 is a pump housing, which can comprise: an inlet connection; an outlet connection; a housing interior, which extends into several (ie two or more, e.g. exactly three or more) housing sections, of which: a first housing section comprises a first section of the housing interior (also referred to as first cavity), in which the inlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens; a second housing section comprises a second section of the housing interior (also referred to as second cavity), in which the outlet connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens, and preferably comprises a housing wall delimiting the second cavity, which (e.g. along a rotational axis and / or to the first housing section, e.g.its first cavity) is penetrated by a shaft receiving opening for receiving a drive shaft; and an optional third housing section is arranged between the first housing section and the second housing section and has an optional third section of the housing interior (also referred to as a third cavity), wherein at least two (ie two or more) of the plurality (e.g. the plurality) housing sections (and optionally the input port and / or the output port) or at least one or more than one housing wall thereof comprise or consist of polyurethane.

[0164] Example 5 is the use of a (e.g. pressureless) casting process and / or polyurethane for producing a pump housing (e.g. according to one of Examples 1 to 4) or at least a part of the pump housing, preferably a plurality of housing sections of the pump housing, of which: a first housing section has a first cavity into which an input connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens; a second housing section has a second cavity into which an output connection (e.g. a channel thereof) opens, and preferably has a housing wall delimiting the second cavity, which (e.g. along a rotational axis and / or to the first housing section, e.g.its first cavity) is penetrated by a shaft receiving opening for receiving a drive shaft; and an optional third housing section is arranged between the first housing section and the second housing section and has an optional third cavity which opens into the first cavity and the second cavity (or at least connects them to one another in a fluid-conducting manner), wherein the shaft receiving opening (and / or the axis of rotation) and at least one cavity (e.g. the geometry thereof) of the plurality of housing sections (e.g. the second and / or the third cavity) are arranged relative to one another, for example, according to a liquid ring configuration (then the pump housing is also referred to as a liquid ring pump housing); and wherein at least two (i.e. two or more) of the plurality (e.g.the plurality of housing sections (or at least one or more than one housing wall thereof) are monolithic and / or formed from polyurethane (or at least comprise polyurethane).

[0165] Example 6 is a pump housing according to any one of examples 1 to 5, which can optionally further comprise: a housing opening which opens into the first cavity (e.g., along the axis of rotation and / or toward the second housing section, e.g., the second cavity thereof). Example 7 is a pump housing according to any one of examples 1 to 6, wherein the axis of rotation and at least one cavity (e.g., the geometry thereof) of the plurality of housing sections (e.g., the second and / or third cavity) are configured relative to one another, for example, according to a liquid ring configuration (then the pump housing is also referred to as a liquid ring pump housing).

[0166] Example 8 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the shaft receiving opening (and / or the rotation axis) and at least one cavity (e.g., the geometry thereof) of the plurality of housing sections (e.g., the second and / or the third cavity) are configured relative to each other, for example, according to a liquid ring configuration (then the pump housing is also referred to as a liquid ring pump housing).

[0167] Example 9 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the third cavity (e.g., a cross-sectional area thereof) is completely overlapped by the first cavity (e.g., a cross-sectional area thereof) (e.g., along the rotation axis and / or toward the second housing portion, e.g., the second cavity thereof). For example, the cross-sectional area is projected along one viewing direction onto the other cross-sectional area.

[0168] Example 10 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the second and / or third cavity (e.g., the cross-sectional area thereof) is completely overlapped by the housing opening (e.g., a cross-sectional area thereof) (e.g., along the rotation axis and / or toward the second housing portion, e.g., the second cavity thereof). For example, the cross-sectional area is projected along one viewing direction onto the other cross-sectional area.

[0169] Example 11 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the housing opening is arranged on a side of the first cavity opposite the second cavity and / or third cavity.

[0170] Example 12 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, comprising polyurethane which delimits at least the first cavity, the second cavity and / or the third cavity, e.g. circumferentially delimited, e.g. in the form of one or more than one housing wall.

[0171] Example 13 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, which may optionally further comprise: a (e.g. plate-shaped) housing cover which is adapted to be received in the housing opening (e.g. in a groove thereof) to close the housing opening.

[0172] Example 14 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the housing cover is translucent (e.g., transparent or translucent) and / or comprises (or consists of) a polymer.

[0173] Example 15 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein at least two (ie, two or more) of the plurality (eg, the plurality) housing sections (and, for example, the input port and / or the output port) or at least one or more than one housing wall thereof are monolithic and / or formed of polyurethane (or at least comprise polyurethane).

[0174] Example 16 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, which is configured as a vacuum pump housing.

[0175] Example 17 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 16, which can optionally further comprise: a check valve for sealing the inlet port; wherein the first housing portion comprises a valve seat (e.g., arranged in a recess) that is (e.g., arranged adjacent to the inlet port and) defines the first cavity for mounting the check valve in the first cavity; and wherein the valve seat comprises, for example, a mounting base configured to mount the check valve thereto.

[0176] Example 18 is a pump housing according to Example 17, wherein the check valve comprises (or consists of) a flap valve, wherein the flap valve can comprise, for example: a valve flap; a mounting base for mounting the valve flap to the first housing section; a joint by means of which the valve flap is movably mounted relative to the mounting base; wherein, for example, the joint, the valve flap and / or the mounting base are monolithic and / or formed from polyurethane (or at least comprise polyurethane).

[0177] Example 19 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein at least two (ie, two or more) of the plurality (eg, the plurality) housing sections are monolithically connected to each other.

[0178] Example 20 is a pump housing according to any one of examples 1 to 19, wherein the rotation axis and / or the (e.g., cylindrical) shaft receiving opening (e.g., its center of rotation) are arranged eccentrically to the first and / or third cavity (e.g., to a surface of rotation which circumferentially delimits the third cavity, e.g., to its center of rotation).

[0179] Example 21 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the inlet port and the first housing portion (or at least one or more than one housing wall thereof) are monolithic (e.g., connected to each other) and / or are formed of polyurethane (or at least comprise polyurethane).

[0180] Example 22 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the output port and the second housing section (or at least one or more than one housing wall thereof) are monolithic (e.g., connected to each other) and / or are formed of polyurethane (or at least comprise polyurethane). Example 23 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the input port and / or the output port comprise a tube section protruding from the plurality of housing sections.

[0181] Example 24 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the inlet port comprises a channel extending into the first housing portion and / or opening into the first cavity.

[0182] Example 25 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 24, wherein the output port has a channel extending into the second housing portion and / or opening into the first cavity.

[0183] Example 26 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 25, wherein at least two (ie, two or more) of the plurality (eg, the plurality) housing sections, the output port, and / or the input port form one (eg, monolithic housing body) of the pump housing.

[0184] Example 27 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 26, wherein at least two (ie, two or more) of the plurality (eg, the plurality) housing sections are a result of a (eg, pressureless) casting process.

[0185] Example 28 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 27, wherein the housing wall has a mounting base on a side opposite the second cavity for mounting a drive device thereon.

[0186] Example 29 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the housing wall has, on a side opposite the second cavity, a receiving groove surrounding the shaft receiving opening for receiving a seal.

[0187] Example 30 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 29, which can optionally further comprise: a first (e.g., metallic) partition wall that is separate from and / or detachable from the plurality of housing sections and is penetrated by a through-opening; wherein the second housing section has a (e.g., annular) mounting surface that surrounds the second cavity (e.g., along a closed path) and adjoins the first or third cavity; wherein the first partition wall, when it bears against the mounting surface, adjoins the second cavity and / or its through-opening is aligned with the shaft receiving opening or at least partially overlaps it (e.g., along the rotation axis); wherein the first partition wall and the first cavity (and / or the housing opening) are configured relative to one another, for example, such that the first partition wall can be brought into or removed from the first cavity, e.g.,can be brought into or out of the third cavity through the first cavity (and / or the housing opening). Example 31 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 30, which can optionally further comprise: a second (e.g. metallic) partition wall which is separate and / or detachable from the plurality of housing sections and which is penetrated by a through-opening; wherein the third housing section has a (e.g. annular) mounting surface which surrounds the third cavity (e.g. along a self-contained path) and adjoins the first cavity; wherein the second partition wall, when in contact with the mounting surface, adjoins the third cavity and / or whose through-opening is aligned with the shaft-receiving opening or at least partially overlaps it (e.g. along the axis of rotation).

[0188] Example 32 is a pump housing according to Example 31, wherein the second partition wall and the housing opening are arranged relative to each other such that the second partition wall can be brought into or out of the first cavity through the housing opening.

[0189] Example 33 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 32, wherein the second partition wall comprises one or more comminution tools (e.g., one or more cutting teeth, cutting rings, or the like) (e.g., arranged adjacent to the through-opening) for providing a comminution mechanism (e.g., cutting mechanism), wherein the one or more comminution tools (e.g., the one or more cutting teeth), when the second partition wall abuts the mounting surface, preferably protrude into the first cavity or at least adjoin it.

[0190] Example 34 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 33, which can optionally further comprise: a first metal sleeve embedded in the input port and / or a second metal sleeve embedded in the output port.

[0191] Example 35 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 34, wherein the housing wall delimiting the second cavity is arranged on a side of the second cavity opposite the first cavity and / or third cavity.

[0192] Example 36 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 35, which can optionally further comprise: a seal which is configured to seal a gap (eg formed in the shaft receiving opening) between the shaft and the housing wall.

[0193] Example 37 is a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the housing wall has, for example, a (eg groove-shaped or fold-shaped) recess (eg receiving groove) for receiving the seal, which is adjacent to the shaft receiving opening.

[0194] Example 38 is a method of handling a pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 37, the method may comprise: displacing (i.e., moving, e.g., inserting) the check valve (e.g., through the housing opening) into or out of the first cavity; and mounting the check valve on the first housing portion or dismounting it when disposed in the first cavity. Example 39 is a vacuum pump, which may comprise: the pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 37; a pumping mechanism (e.g., having a shaft) which, when received in the pump housing, is (or at least capable of being) rotatably mounted about the rotation axis.

[0195] Example 40 is a vacuum pump according to Example 39, wherein the pumping mechanism is configured, for example, relative to the first cavity such that the pumping mechanism can be brought into or out of the first cavity in individual parts or in combination, e.g., brought into or out of the third cavity through the first cavity (and / or the housing opening).

[0196] Example 41 is a vacuum pump according to example 39 or 40, which may optionally further comprise: a drive device configured to supply torque to the pumping mechanism.

[0197] Example 42 is a vacuum pump according to Example 41, wherein the drive device comprises, for example, an electric motor and / or a shaft coupling.

[0198] Example 43 is a vacuum pump according to any one of Examples 39 to 42, wherein the pumping mechanism is configured according to the liquid ring configuration and / or is configured to form a liquid ring in the first or third cavity during operation.

[0199] Example 44 is a vacuum pump according to any one of examples 39 to 43, wherein the pumping mechanism can comprise: a comminution tool (e.g. cutting wheel, e.g. having a plurality of cutting teeth, which is also referred to as a cutting gear) for forming a comminution mechanism (e.g. cutting mechanism), wherein the comminution tool (e.g. cutting wheel) is configured and can be arranged in the pump housing (e.g. mounted on a shaft) such that a fluid flowing from the first cavity into the second cavity passes the comminution tool (e.g. cutting wheel, e.g. having a plurality of cutting teeth).

[0200] Example 45 is a vacuum pump according to any one of examples 39 to 44, wherein the pumping mechanism may comprise: an impeller, which may, for example, have a thread, and may further comprise, for example: an axis of rotation about which the impeller may be rotatably mounted.

[0201] Example 46 is a vacuum pump according to Example 45, wherein the impeller thread extends along a helical path around the axis of rotation and / or wherein the thread tapers along the path.

[0202] Example 47 is a vacuum pump according to example 45 or 46, wherein the impeller has a threaded wall surface that defines the thread pitch, wherein the threaded wall surface extends along a direction (e.g., away from the rotational axis of the impeller) that is oblique to the rotational axis of the impeller. Example 48 is a method of handling a vacuum pump according to any one of examples 39 to 47, the method may include: moving the pumping mechanism into or out of the first cavity (e.g., through the first cavity into the third cavity); and mounting the pumping mechanism to or dismounting it from a drive device when it is at least partially disposed within the pump housing (e.g., in the first or third cavity); wherein moving the pumping mechanism through the first cavity occurs, for example, when at least two (e.g., two or more) of the plurality (e.g., the plurality) housing sections touch each other (e.g.,are joined together) and / or if a (e.g. stationary) pipe system is coupled to the outlet connection and / or the inlet connection.

[0203] Example 49 is a method for operating a vacuum pump according to any one of examples 39 to 47, the method may comprise: driving a rotary movement of the pumping mechanism; supplying a liquid by means of the inlet connection; wherein the liquid is excited, for example, by means of the rotary movement of the pumping mechanism, to form a liquid ring in the pump housing (e.g., the first or third cavity).

[0204] Example 50 is a vacuum wastewater device coupled to the article (e.g., the vacuum pump or at least the pump housing) according to any one of Examples 1 to 48 (e.g., to its input port), for example, such that a negative pressure generated by the vacuum pump can be provided to the vacuum wastewater device and / or a fluid can be withdrawn.

[0205] Example 51 is the vacuum wastewater device according to Example 50, wherein the vacuum wastewater device comprises a container (e.g., wastewater collection container) and a pipe system, wherein the pipe system fluidly couples the container to the vacuum pump.

[0206] Example 52 is the vacuum sewage device according to example 50 or 51, wherein the container is a toilet container (also then referred to as a vacuum toilet) or urinal; and / or which is arranged on a vehicle (e.g., watercraft, e.g., ship, train, or aircraft).

[0207] Example 53 is the vacuum sewage device according to any one of Examples 50 to 52, comprising: a sewage collection tank, a vacuum sewage port coupled to the vacuum pump; and a sewage valve connected between the sewage collection tank and the vacuum sewage port.

[0208] Example 54 is the vacuum sewage device according to any one of examples 50 to 53, comprising: at least one electrical actuator configured to change an actual state of the vacuum sewage device.

[0209] Example 55 is the vacuum sewage device according to any one of examples 50 to 54, comprising: a control device configured to control the sewage valve and / or the actuator according to a desired state, and preferably to determine the desired state, e.g. based on a received signal.

[0210] Example 56 is a vehicle (e.g., watercraft, e.g., ship, train, or aircraft) having the vacuum sewage device according to any one of Examples 50 to 55.

[0211] Example 57 is the vacuum sewage device of example 50 or 56, wherein the control device is configured to receive a message according to a network communication protocol, the message comprising an indication of the desired state.

[0212] Example 58 is the use of any one of Examples 1 to 57, wherein the vacuum pump (e.g., the pumping mechanism thereof) or at least the pump housing (e.g., the polyurethane thereof) is exposed to at least wastewater (e.g., blackwater, greywater and / or brownwater) and / or saltwater.

[0213] Example 59 is configured according to any one of examples 1 to 58, wherein the vacuum pump or at least the pump housing is used for sucking out wastewater (e.g. black water, grey water and / or brown water) and / or salt water.

[0214] Example 60 is configured according to any one of examples 1 to 59, wherein the vacuum pump or at least the pump housing is used to extract condensate, e.g., in a supermarket and / or from a land-based pipe system.

[0215] Example 61 is configured as any one of examples 1 to 60, wherein the first cavity and the second cavity are different from each other (e.g., geometrically), e.g., separated and / or offset from each other, e.g., by means of an edge adjacent to a mounting surface and / or by means of a partition wall (e.g., attached to the mounting surface).

[0216] Example 62 is configured as any one of examples 1 to 61, wherein the third cavity and the second cavity are different from each other (eg geometrically), eg separated and / or offset from each other, eg by means of an edge to which a mounting surface adjoins, and / or by means of a partition wall (eg attached to the mounting surface).

[0217] Example 63 is configured as any one of Examples 1 to 62, having the third cavity, wherein the shaft receiving opening (and / or the rotation axis) and the third cavity (e.g., the geometry thereof) are configured relative to each other according to a liquid ring configuration (then the pump housing is also referred to as a liquid ring pump housing).

[0218] Example 64 is configured as any one of Examples 1 to 63, wherein the third cavity and the first cavity are (e.g., geometrically) different from each other, e.g., separated and / or offset from each other, e.g., by means of an edge adjacent to a mounting surface and / or by means of a partition wall (e.g., attached to the mounting surface). Example 65 is a device that is connected to the ground (e.g., in the case of an installation in a building or the like) or configured as a vehicle (e.g., a watercraft, e.g., a ship, train, or aircraft), and that comprises the vacuum pump or at least the pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 64. It can be understood that the vacuum pump can alternatively or additionally be used to extract a liquid discharged from a stationary and / or land-based liquid source (e.g., condensate, an exhaust system in supermarkets, and the like).

[0219] Example 66 is a cooling device coupled to the vacuum pump or at least the pump housing according to any one of Examples 1 to 65.

[0220] Example 67 is using a (e.g., pressureless) casting process and / or polyurethane to produce a check valve, wherein the check valve preferably comprises (or consists of) a flap valve, wherein the flap valve can, for example, comprise: a valve flap; a mounting base for mounting the valve flap to the first housing section; a joint by means of which the valve flap is movably mounted relative to the mounting base; wherein, for example, the joint, the valve flap and / or the mounting base are monolithic and / or formed from (or at least comprise) polyurethane.

[0221] Example 68 is using a (e.g., pressureless) casting process and / or polyurethane to produce a check valve, wherein the check valve preferably comprises (or consists of) a flap valve, wherein the flap valve can, for example, comprise: a valve flap; a mounting base for mounting the valve flap to the first housing section; a joint by means of which the valve flap is movably mounted relative to the mounting base; wherein, for example, the joint, the valve flap and / or the mounting base are monolithic and / or formed from (or at least comprise) polyurethane.

[0222] Example 69 is using a (e.g. pressureless) casting process and / or polyurethane to produce an impeller, which may, for example, have a thread and may further comprise, for example: an axis of rotation about which the impeller can be rotatably mounted.

[0223] Example 70 is configured according to Example 69, wherein the thread of the impeller extends along a helical path around the axis of rotation and / or wherein the thread tapers along the path.

[0224] Example 71 is configured according to example 69 or 70, wherein the impeller has a thread wall surface defining the thread pitch, the thread wall surface extending along a direction (e.g., away from the impeller's rotational axis) that is oblique to the impeller's rotational axis. Example 72 is any one of examples 1 to 70, further configured according to any one of the following claims.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Pump housing (100), comprising: • an input terminal (110); • an output terminal (120); and • several housing sections, of which: • a first housing section (130) has a first cavity into which the input connection (110) opens; • a second housing section (140) has a second cavity into which the output connection (120) opens, and has a housing wall (141) delimiting the second cavity, which is penetrated towards the first housing section (130) by a shaft receiving opening (161) for receiving a drive shaft (410); • preferably a third housing section (150) is arranged between the first housing section (130) and the second housing section (140) and has a third cavity which fluidically couples the first cavity and the second cavity to one another; wherein the shaft receiving opening (161) and at least one cavity of the plurality of housing sections are configured relative to one another according to a liquid ring configuration; wherein at least two of the plurality of housing sections are monolithically connected to one another.

2. Pump housing (100) according to claim 1, further comprising: • a housing opening (170) which opens into the first cavity towards the second housing section (140); • wherein the housing opening (170) is arranged on a side of the first cavity opposite the second cavity, and • wherein the second cavity is completely overlapped by the housing opening (170).

3. Pump housing (100) according to claim 2, further comprising: • a translucent housing cover (171) which is arranged to be received in the housing opening (170) and to close the housing opening (170).

4. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second cavity is completely overlapped by the first cavity.

5. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of housing sections comprise or consist of polyurethane.

6. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: • a check valve for sealing the inlet connection (110); wherein the first housing portion (130) has a valve seat defining the first cavity for mounting the check valve in the first cavity.

7. Pump housing (100) according to claim 6, wherein the check valve comprises a flap valve (300) and / or is made of polyurethane.

8. Pump housing (100) according to claim 7, wherein the flap valve (300) comprises: • a valve flap (310); • a mounting base (320) for mounting the valve flap (310) on the first housing section (130), • a joint (330) by means of which the valve flap (310) is movably mounted relative to the mounting base (320); • wherein the joint (330), the valve flap (310) and the mounting base (320) are monolithically connected to one another and / or formed from polyurethane.

9. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of housing sections are a result of a pressureless casting process.

10. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: • a first partition wall (180) separate from the plurality of housing sections, which is penetrated by a through opening (181); • wherein the second housing portion (140) has a mounting surface (144) surrounding the second cavity and adjacent to the at least one cavity; • wherein the first partition wall (180), when it rests against the mounting surface (144), adjoins the second cavity and its through-opening (181) is aligned with the shaft receiving opening (161) or at least partially overlaps it.

11. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: • a second partition wall (190) separate from the plurality of housing sections, which is penetrated by a through opening (191); • wherein the third housing portion (150) has a mounting surface (154) surrounding the third cavity and adjacent to the first cavity; • wherein the second partition wall (190), when it rests against the mounting surface (154), adjoins the third cavity and its through-opening (191) is aligned with the shaft receiving opening (161) or at least partially overlaps it.

12. Pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the second partition wall (190) has one or more than one comminution tool (192) for providing a comminution mechanism, wherein the one or more than one comminution tool (192) projects into the first cavity or at least adjoins it when the second partition wall (190) abuts the mounting surface (154).

13. Pump housing (100), comprising: • an input terminal (110); • an output terminal (120); • several housing sections, of which: • a first housing section (130) has a first cavity into which the input connection (110) opens; • a second housing section (140) has a second cavity into which the output connection (120) opens; • preferably a third housing section (150) is arranged between the first housing section (130) and the second housing section (140) and has a third cavity which fluidically connects the first cavity and the second cavity; wherein the at least two of the plurality of housing sections comprise or consist of polyurethane, into which a connecting element is preferably integrated.

14. A method (700) for handling a pump housing according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising: • Moving a check valve into or out of the first cavity (710); • Mounting the check valve on the first housing section or dismounting it when it is arranged in the first cavity (720).

15. Using a pressureless casting process for producing at least a part of the pump housing according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the part of the pump housing preferably comprises a plurality of housing sections of the pump housing and / or the flap valve of the pump housing according to claim 7 or 8.

16. Using the pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 13 such that it is exposed to black water, grey water, brown water and / or salt water.

17. Vacuum pump (500), comprising: • the pump housing (100) according to one of claims 1 to 13, • a pumping mechanism (400) which, when accommodated in the pump housing (100), is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation (162) along which the shaft receiving opening (161) penetrates the housing wall (141); • wherein the pumping unit (400) is arranged relative to the first cavity in such a way that the pumping unit (400) can be brought into or out of the first cavity, preferably through the first cavity into the third cavity, in individual parts or in combination.

18. Vacuum pump (500) according to claim 17, wherein the pumping mechanism (400) is configured to form a liquid ring in the pump housing during operation.

19. Vacuum pump (500) according to claim 17 or 18, the pumping unit (400) comprising: • a comminution tool (420) for forming a comminution unit, wherein the comminution tool (420) is configured and can be arranged in the pump housing (100) such that a fluid flowing from the first cavity into the second cavity passes the comminution tool (420).

20. Vacuum pump (500) according to one of claims 17 to 19, the pumping unit (400) comprising: • an impeller (430) having a thread (433), wherein: • the thread (433) extends along a helical path around the axis of rotation (162) and tapers along the path; and / or • the impeller (430) has a thread wall surface (433a) which defines the thread (433), the thread wall surface (433a) extending along a direction which is oblique to the axis of rotation (162).

21. A method (800) for handling a vacuum pump according to any one of claims 17 to 20, the method comprising: • Moving the pumping mechanism into the first cavity, preferably through the first cavity into the third cavity, into or out of it (810); • Mounting the pumping unit on a drive device or dismounting it if it is at least partially arranged in the pump housing (820); wherein the displacement of the pumping unit takes place if • the multiple housing sections touch each other and / or • a fixed piping system is coupled to the outlet connection and the inlet connection.

22. Device which is connected to a ground or is designed as a vehicle, preferably a watercraft or train or aircraft, and which has a vacuum wastewater device and a vacuum pump coupled to the vacuum wastewater device according to one of claims 17 to 20.

23. Using a pressureless casting process to manufacture a flap valve comprising: • a valve flap; • a mounting base for mounting the valve flap to the first housing section; • a joint by means of which the valve flap is movably mounted relative to the mounting base; • wherein preferably the joint, the valve flap and / or the mounting base are monolithic and / or formed from polyurethane.

24. Using a pressureless casting process for producing an impeller, which preferably has a thread, more preferably the impeller of the vacuum pump according to claim 20.

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