Multi-switching pump assembly

Abstract

A multi-switching pump assembly is disclosed that facilitates switching and / or mixing of flows from a pump assembly. The multi-switching pump assembly includes a pump body, an electric motor, a rotating motor shaft, a first pump stage and impeller, and a second pump stage and impeller. The first pump stage includes a first inlet, and first and second outlets disposed about the pump body. The second pump stage includes a second fluid inlet connected to a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber is further connected to the second fluid outlet of the first pump stage. The second stage further includes a second and third outlets disposed about the pump body. An actuator connected to the valve assembly is configured to operate and place the valve assembly in at least a first switching position, a second switching position, a third switching position, and a fourth switching position to induce fluid flow between the first pump stage, the second pump stage, the first fluid outlet, the second fluid outlet, the third fluid outlet, and the fourth fluid outlet.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001]

[0001] The present disclosure is directed generally to pumps. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a multi-switch pump assembly that facilitates switching and / or mixing of flows through the pump assembly. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] Pumps are known and are commonly used to move fluids such as coolants in vehicles. Vehicles include cooling circuits for cooling heat generating components of the vehicle, such as the vehicle's battery bank (for electric and hybrid vehicles) and the vehicle's power train (e.g., antifreeze for combustion engine cooling). Waste heat drawn from the heat generating components may also be circulated to heat the vehicle's passenger compartment, if desired. Currently known pumps are used to circulate coolant fluid between the heat generating components and the vehicle's heat dissipation devices, such as a radiator, heat exchanger, or passenger compartment heater. In currently known pump assemblies, this has been done using separate components, such as fluid pumps and valves, that switch or shift the coolant fluid circulating in the fluid circuits through the various cooling circuits.

[0003]

[0003] Individual valves can potentially be used to control flow from one or more pumps to one or more circuits. However, such systems require multiple valves and / or complex valve assemblies, as well as a control system for selective actuation of the valves. A simplified system is desired that can integrate pumps and valves into a compact assembly that can switch or mix fluid flow between two or more cooling circuits. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004]

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a multi-switching pump assembly that facilitates flow switching and / or flow mixing through the pump assembly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In a first embodiment, a pump assembly is disclosed that includes a pump body, a first pump stage housed in the pump body and having a first fluid inlet and first and second fluid outlets, a second pump stage housed in the pump body and having a second fluid inlet and third and fourth fluid outlets, a mixing chamber housed in the pump body between the first and second pump stages and in fluid communication with the second fluid inlet and second fluid outlet, and a valve assembly. The valve assembly is operable to a first switching position that fluidly connects the first fluid inlet to the first fluid outlet through the first pump stage and fluidly connects the mixing chamber to the third fluid outlet through the second pump stage. The valve assembly is further operable to a second switching position that fluidly connects the first fluid inlet to the first fluid outlet through the first pump stage and fluidly connects the mixing chamber to the fourth fluid outlet through the second pump stage. Operating the valve assembly to a third switch position fluidly connects the first fluid inlet to the second fluid outlet and to the mixing chamber through the first pump stage, such that fluid from the second fluid inlet and fluid from the second fluid outlet are mixed in the mixing chamber and fluidly connected to the third fluid outlet through the second pump stage. Operating the valve assembly to a fourth switch position fluidly connects the first fluid inlet to the second fluid outlet through the first pump stage and fluidly connects the mixed fluid through the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet.

[0006] In a second embodiment, a method for switching fluid flow through a pump assembly is disclosed, the method including moving a valve assembly to a first switch position fluidly connecting a first fluid inlet and a first fluid source to a first pump stage having a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet. The first switch position fluidly connects the first fluid outlet to the first pump stage, the first pump stage pumping fluid from the first fluid source to the first fluid outlet. The method further includes fluidly connecting a mixing chamber to a second pump stage. The mixing chamber is fluidly connected to a second fluid inlet and a second fluid source. The second pump stage has a third fluid outlet and a fourth fluid outlet. The first switch position fluidly connects the third fluid outlet to the second pump stage, the second pump stage pumping fluid from the second fluid source to the third fluid outlet. The method also includes moving the valve assembly to a second switching position that fluidly isolates the second pump stage from the third fluid outlet and fluidly connects the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet, where fluid from the second fluid source is pumped to the fourth fluid outlet. The method additionally includes moving the valve assembly to a third switching position that fluidly connects the first fluid inlet and the first fluid source to the second fluid outlet and fluidly isolates the first pump stage from the first fluid outlet. The first pump stage pumps fluid from the first fluid source to a mixing chamber where it is mixed with fluid from the second fluid inlet and the second fluid source. The valve assembly in the third switching position fluidly connects the mixing chamber to the second pump stage and the third fluid outlet and isolates the second pump stage from the fourth fluid outlet, where the second pump stage accelerates and boosts the mixed fluid to the third fluid outlet. The method further includes moving the valve assembly to a fourth switch position fluidly isolating the second pump stage from the third fluid outlet and fluidly connecting the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet, the second pump stage accelerating and propelling the mixed fluid to the fourth fluid outlet.

[0007]

[0007] Other technical features will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, descriptions, and claims.

[0008] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1]

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an assembled pump assembly of the present disclosure; [Diagram 2]

[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a pump assembly of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3]

[0011] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view through a portion of an assembled pump assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A]

[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a valve assembly of the present disclosure; [Figure 4B]

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a valve assembly of the present disclosure rotated 90 degrees. [Diagram 5]

[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a valve assembly, pump motor, and actuator isolated from the pump housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A]

[0015] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view through a portion of a first pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a first switching position. [Figure 6B]

[0016] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a second pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a first switching position. [Figure 7A]

[0017] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a second switching position. [Figure 7B]

[0018] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a second pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a second switching position. [Figure 8A]

[0019] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a third switching position. [Figure 8B]

[0020] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a second pump stage of the present disclosure, the valve assembly being in a third switching position. [Figure 9A]

[0021] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a fourth switching position. [Figure 9B]

[0022] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a second pump stage of the present disclosure, with the valve assembly in a fourth switching position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009]

[0023] The drawings discussed below and the various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present invention in this patent document are merely exemplary and should not be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present invention may be implemented in any type of suitably configured device or system.

[0010]

[0024] An exemplary assembly provides a multi-switching pump assembly that facilitates flow switching and / or flow mixing through the pump assembly. The multi-switching pump assembly includes a pump body, an electric motor, a rotating motor shaft, a first pump stage and impeller, and a second pump stage and impeller. The first pump stage includes a first inlet and first and second outlets disposed about the pump body. The second pump stage includes a second fluid inlet and a fluid connection to the second fluid outlet of the first pump stage. The second stage further includes a second and third outlets disposed about the pump body.

[0011]

[0025] The first pump stage impeller and the second pump stage impeller are disposed on opposite sides of a mixing chamber fluidly connected to the second fluid inlet of the second pump stage and the second fluid outlet of the first pump stage. The first pump stage impeller and the second pump stage impeller are connected to a motor shaft and rotated by the motor. The first pump stage impeller, which is in fluid communication with the first pump stage, the first fluid outlet, the second fluid outlet, and the second pump stage impeller, is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber and the third and fourth fluid outlets.

[0012]

[0026] An actuator connected to the valve assembly is configured to operate and place the valve assembly in at least a first switching position, a second switching position, a third switching position, and a fourth switching position. The valve assembly switches and / or mixes fluids flowing in two fluid circuits through the pump assembly. In the first switching position, a first valve member of the valve assembly opens the first fluid outlet and closes the second fluid outlet. Fluid in the first fluid circuit enters the first fluid inlet and is pumped out the first fluid outlet by the first pump stage impeller. In the first switching position, a second valve member of the second pump stage opens the third fluid outlet and closes the fourth fluid outlet. Fluid in the second fluid circuit enters the second pump stage via the second fluid inlet to the mixing chamber and is pumped out the third fluid outlet by the second pump stage impeller. In a first switching position of the valve assembly, the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit are maintained separate to provide isolated loops through the fluid circuits to provide chilling of the fluid being circulated using a cooling device such as a radiator or chiller.

[0013]

[0027] Operating the actuator to place the valve assembly in a second switching position maintains the first pump stage second outlet closed and directs fluid out of the first fluid outlet. However, in the second switching position, the second stage valve member closes the third fluid outlet and opens the fourth fluid outlet. In the second switching position, the first and second fluid circuits are maintained separate to provide isolated loops through the fluid circuits. The first fluid circuit may, for example, maintain cooling for a vehicle battery in an electric vehicle, while the second fluid circuit is looped through a passenger compartment heat exchanger to provide heating for the passenger compartment using waste heat from the battery.

[0014]

[0028] Operating the actuator to a third switching position places the valve member of the first pump stage to close the first fluid outlet, diverting fluid to the second fluid outlet. Fluid from the first fluid circuit enters the first fluid inlet and is pumped by the first stage impeller into the mixing chamber. In the mixing chamber, fluid from the first fluid circuit is mixed with fluid from the second fluid circuit entering the mixing chamber from the second fluid inlet. In the third switching position, the second stage valve member closes the fourth fluid outlet and opens the third fluid outlet. Fluid mixed in the mixing chamber is pumped from the second pump stage to the third fluid outlet by the second impeller. In the third switching position, the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit are coupled, for example to provide cabin cooling and battery cooling from one cooling device.

[0015]

[0029] In the fourth switching position, fluid from the first fluid circuit is pumped from the first pump stage impeller to the second fluid outlet and to the mixing chamber to mix with fluid from the second fluid circuit, but in the fourth switching position the fourth fluid outlet is open and the third fluid outlet is closed. The second pump stage impeller pumps the mixed fluid from the mixing chamber to the fourth fluid outlet. In the fourth switching position, the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit are coupled to provide cabin heating, for example using waste heat from a battery or an electric heater.

[0016]

[0030] 1 illustrates an exemplary multi-switching pump assembly 1 for pumping a fluid, such as a coolant, within a vehicle. As can be appreciated, the pump assembly 1 may be used in non-vehicle applications. The exemplary multi-switching pump assembly 1 is an integration of a two-stage pump and valves to selectively provide flow switching and / or flow mixing from the pump stages of the pump assembly 1.

[0017]

[0031] 1-3 show a pump assembly 1 having a pump motor section 2 and a pump section 4 consisting of a first pump stage 6 and a second pump stage 7. In the illustrated example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the first pump stage 6 is essentially cylindrically formed and includes a peripheral outer wall 32 surrounding a cylindrical first stage impeller cavity 50. A fluid inlet 36, e.g. a suction inlet for receiving a fluid, e.g. a vehicle coolant, is centrally located with respect to the axis of rotation of the first pump stage 6. The first pump stage 6 also includes at least a first fluid outlet 34 and a second fluid outlet 38 for discharging fluid from the first pump stage 6. The first fluid outlet 34 and the second fluid outlet 38 extend from the wall 32 at right angles to the fluid inlet 36, and the centers of the first fluid outlet 34 and the second fluid outlet 38 are axially offset from one another such that in this example they are oriented at 180 degrees relative to one another. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the fluid outlets 34, 38 may be offset from one another at any other convenient angle. Both fluid outlets 34, 38 are fluidly connected to the first impeller cavity 50.

[0018]

[0032] The second pump stage 7 is also cylindrically formed and includes a peripheral outer wall 33 extending coaxially from the outer wall 32 of the first pump stage 6. The wall 33 surrounds a cylindrical second stage impeller cavity 51 and a cylindrical mixing chamber 35. A second fluid inlet 146, e.g., a suction inlet, supplies fluid to the mixing chamber 35. As best seen in FIG. 3, the mixing chamber 35 is isolated from the first impeller cavity 50 by a thimble 55. A second thimble 56 separates the fluid supply chamber 35 from the second impeller cavity 51 of the second pump stage. The second thimble 56 includes an annular aperture 57 that is centrally located therein and extends through the thimble 56 into the second impeller cavity 51. The aperture 57 serves as an inlet for fluid to enter the second impeller cavity 51 from the mixing chamber 35. The second fluid outlet 38 of the first pump stage 6 is connected to the mixing chamber 35 via an inlet loop 37 extending from the outer wall 33. Fluid discharged from the second fluid outlet 38 is conducted into the mixing chamber 35 by the inlet loop 37. A third fluid outlet 39 and a fourth fluid outlet 149 extend from the wall 33 from the second impeller cavity 51. The third fluid outlet 39 and the fourth fluid outlet 149 extend from the wall 33 at 90 degrees to the other in this example. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the fluid outlets 39, 149 may be offset from each other at any other convenient angle.

[0019]

[0033] The first impeller cavity 50 of the first pump stage 6 is configured to receive therein a first stage impeller 16 having a plurality of vanes mounted between a front vane plate 161 and a rear vane plate 162. The rear vane plate 162 is configured to be mounted within a recess 58 in the thimble 55. The recess 58 serves as a bearing surface for the impeller 16. The motor shaft 12 of the pump motor 10 extends through the mixing chamber 35 and into an opening 59 through the thimble 55 and is attached to the impeller 16 in any known convenient manner.

[0020]

[0034] The second impeller cavity 51 of the second pump stage 7 is configured to receive therein a second stage impeller 17 having a plurality of vanes mounted between a first vane plate 171 and a rear vane plate 172. The rear vane plate 172 is configured to be mounted within a recess 61 of the pump motor mounting plate 13. The recess 61 serves as a bearing surface for the second stage impeller 17. The motor shaft 12 extends through the pump motor mounting plate 13 into the mixing chamber 35 to the first stage impeller 16 of the first pump stage 6. The motor shaft 12 is attached to the second stage impeller 17 in any known convenient manner. The second stage impeller 17 is configured to be driven by the pump motor 10 and rotatable within the second impeller cavity 51 of the second pump stage 7. Because both impellers 16 and 17 are mounted on the same motor shaft 12, they are both driven by pump motor 10 at the same rotational speed.

[0021]

[0035] The pump motor section 2 includes a cylindrical motor housing 3 that defines a cylindrical motor cavity 9 therein. The pump motor housing 3 supports a pump motor 10 and a motor shaft 12 that are mounted through an opening 11 in a pump motor mounting plate 13. The motor mounting plate 13 includes a wall 21 that extends circumferentially from an upper surface of the mounting plate 13. The wall 21 includes a shoulder 23 that extends along the outer periphery of the wall section 21. An elastomeric sealing element, such as an O-ring 24, is configured to be mounted on the shoulder 23. A seal member 14 is mounted in a seal seat 19 molded on the mounting plate 13. The mounting plate 13 is secured to the pump motor 10 using, in this example, a threaded fastener 15 that extends through a hole in the mounting plate 13 to engage a threaded hole 18 in the face of the pump motor 10. The mounting plate seals the motor cavity 9 and the pump motor 10 from the pump section 4.

[0022]

[0036] The first pump stage 6 is assembled to the second pump stage 7 to form the pump section 4 by attaching the rear of the outer housing 32 of the first pump stage 6 to the front of the outer housing 33 of the second pump stage 7 by any method that provides a leak tight bond, such as welding, or by using sealing elements such as gaskets or O-rings.

[0023]

[0037] When the mounting plate 13 attached to the pump motor 10 is attached to lugs 20 disposed about the motor housing 3, the mounting plate 13 and pump section 4 are brought together and the wall 21 is seated into the inner surface of the rear of the second pump stage 7. An O-ring 24 seals against the inner surface of the pump section 4 and the wall 21. The mounting lugs 20 are aligned with one another for assembly and securing the motor section 2 to the pump section 4 with suitable fasteners 26. As can be appreciated, other types of fastening devices or techniques may be used to secure the pump section 4 and the motor section 2 together.

[0024]

[0038] The pump motor 10 includes an electrical connection (not shown) that extends from the rear of the motor 10 through the rear of the motor housing 3. The electrical connection is adapted to receive electrical power from a remotely located power source to energize and operate the pump motor 10.

[0025]

[0039] 2-5 illustrate a valve assembly 40 of the present disclosure. The valve assembly 40 comprises an adjustable first pump stage valve member 42 rotatably mounted outside the first stage impeller 16 of the first pump stage 6 and inside the first impeller cavity 50. The first pump stage valve member 42 is configured to adjustably direct fluid through the respective first fluid outlet 34 or second fluid outlet 38. The valve member 42 includes an annular wall 45 having an outer wall surface 49, an inner wall surface 46, and a rectangular opening 44 extending through the wall 45. In this example, the wall 45 of the valve member 42 is spirally convoluted from a generally thicker wall section at a first end 47 of the opening 44 to a generally thinner wall section at a second end 48 of the opening 44. The first stage impeller 16 is configured to rotate inside the valve member 42 and the convoluted inner wall surface 46.

[0026]

[0040] The valve assembly further includes an adjustable second pump stage valve member 82 mounted radially outboard of the second stage impeller 17 of the second pump stage 7 and inboard of the second impeller cavity 51. The second pump stage valve member 82 is configured to adjustably open and close fluid flow through the third fluid outlet 39 and the fourth fluid outlet 149. The valve member 82 includes an annular wall 85 having an outer wall surface 89, an inner wall surface 86, and a first rectangular opening 84 and a second rectangular opening 184 each extending through the wall 85. As best seen in FIGS. 4B and 5, the openings 84 and 184 are disposed on opposite sides of the wall 89 and face each other. In this example, the wall 85 of the valve member 82 is spirally convoluted from a generally thicker wall section at a first end 87 of the first opening 84 to a generally thinner wall section at a second end 88 of the first opening 84. Similarly, the wall 85 of the valve member 82 is spirally convoluted from a generally thicker wall section at a first end 187 of the second opening 184 to a generally thinner wall section at a second end 188 of the second opening 184. The second stage impeller 17 is configured to rotate inside the valve member 82 and the convoluted inner wall surface 86.

[0027]

[0041] The wall 85 of the valve member 82 is attached to and extends from the second thimble 56. A body member 90 having a plurality of equally spaced ribs 91 is attached to the second thimble 56 with openings 57 disposed at the center of the body 90 and equally spaced between the ribs 91. The ribs 91 of the body member 90 extend perpendicularly from the second thimble 56 and are attached to the lower surface of the first thimble 55. The body 90 is disposed within the fluid supply chamber 35 and functions to transmit the rotational displacement of the first valve member 42 to the second valve member 82. The ribs 91 of the body member 90 may be attached to the thimbles 55 and 56 using any common method, such as, for example, a snap-fit ​​assembly or welding to permanently secure the ribs 91 to the thimbles 55 and 56. Alternatively, the ribs 91 and the thimbles 55 and 56 may be molded as a unitary structure.

[0028]

[0042] A bearing 60, preferably a ball bearing, aligns and stabilizes the first impeller 16, as well as the valve member 42 of the first pump stage 6. The bearing 60 fits within an opening 154 extending from a skirt 155 at the center of the thimble 55. The bearing 60 is pressed into the opening 154 in the skirt 155, as shown in FIG. 3. The bearing 60 includes an outer ring 166 that engages the thimble 55 of the first stage valve member 42, while an inner ring 165 engages and stabilizes the motor shaft 12. The bearing 60 supports both the high speed rotation of the motor shaft 12 and the rotation of the valve assembly 40.

[0029]

[0043] The exemplary first pump stage valve member 42 of the present disclosure further includes a cylindrical inlet member 77 disposed in an upper section 73 of the valve member 42. The upper section 73 is configured to be mounted within a mounting cavity 150 of the valve housing 31 extending between the first pump stage 6 and the fluid inlet 36. The upper section 73 of the valve member 42 further includes an annular outer surface 76 and an inner passage 79 defined by an annular inner surface 78. The outer surface 76 of the upper section 73 may include an outer seal assembly 25 consisting of a pair of resilient seal members separated by a spacer as shown in FIG. 5. The outer seal assembly 25 is disposed circumferentially around the outer circumference of the outer surface 76. The inner surface 78 further includes an inner seal assembly 26 consisting of another pair of seal members separated by a spacer as shown in FIG. 3. The inner seal assembly 26 is disposed directly opposite and parallel to the outer seal assembly 25. The outer seal assembly and the inner seal assembly are used to provide a fluid-tight seal between the valve member 42 and the pump housing 31.

[0030]

[0044] 3, the upper section 73 of the valve member 42 is rotatably mounted within a mounting cavity 150. The internal passage 79 receives the tubular portion 136 of the fluid inlet 36 which directs low pressure fluid to the first stage impeller 16. The outer seal assembly 25 seals against an inner surface 133 of the mounting cavity 150. The inner seal assembly 26 seals against a surface 138 of the mounting cavity 150. The seal assemblies 25, 26 consist of O-rings fabricated from a resilient material such as, for example, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber.

[0031]

[0045] The upper section 73 of the valve member 42 further includes an actuation ring 66 having a splined gear band 101 attached around the circumference of the outer surface 76. As shown in FIG. 5, the teeth of the gear band 101 are configured to be mechanically connected to a worm gear member 104 attached to a motor shaft 102 of an actuator motor 100. The valve member 42 is rotatable about a central axis A to switch fluid flow from the first impeller cavity 50 to either the first fluid outlet 34 or the second fluid outlet 38, as will be described in more detail below. The valve member 82, which is attached to the valve member 42 via ribs 91, also rotates with the rotation of the valve member 42 when the valve member 42 is rotated by the actuator motor 100.

[0032]

[0046] 1 and 2, an actuator motor 100 of the present disclosure is configured to be housed within an actuator motor housing 5 of the pump section 4. The actuator motor housing 5 is integrally formed with the actuator housing 31, such as by injection molding. The actuator motor 100 is electrically connected to a remotely located controller through an electrical circuit compartment (not shown) on the rear face of the actuator motor 100 using an electrical connector. The controller selectively signals the actuator motor 100 to rotate a motor shaft 102.

[0033]

[0047] Rotation of the valve assembly 40 selectively positions the first pump stage valve member 42 to divert fluid flow from the first impeller cavity 50 to either the first fluid outlet 34 or the second fluid outlet 38. Simultaneously, rotation of the valve assembly 40 selectively positions the second pump stage valve member 82 to divert fluid flow from the second impeller cavity 51 to either the third fluid outlet 39 or the fourth fluid outlet 139.

[0034]

[0048] 6A and 6B, an exemplary operation of the first pump stage valve member 42 and the second pump stage valve member 82 will now be described. FIG. 6A illustrates a schematic of a section through the first pump stage 6. The first pump stage 6 includes a first stage impeller 16 that rotates within the valve member 42, is attached to the motor shaft 12, and is driven by the pump motor 10. The first stage impeller 16 receives fluid from the fluid inlet 36 via a tubular portion 136 that extends through the cavity 79 of the valve member 42. The first stage impeller 16 accelerates fluid introduced into the first impeller cavity 50 within the first impeller cavity 50.

[0035]

[0049] 6A , the actuator 100 selectively rotates the actuation ring 66 of the valve assembly 40 to position the opening 44 in the valve member 42 to a first switch position that aligns the opening 44 with the first fluid outlet 34. In the first switch position, fluid accelerated by the first stage impeller 16 is diverted from the first impeller cavity 50 entirely through the first fluid outlet 34. The wall 45 of the valve member 42 closes the second fluid outlet 38.

[0036]

[0050] FIG. 6B shows a schematic diagram of the partition through the second pump stage 7. As previously explained, the valve member 42 is physically fixed to the valve member 82 by the rib 91 of the body member 90. Thus, the rotation of the valve member 42 by the actuator 100 transfers the rotation imparted to the valve member 42 to the valve member 82, simultaneously rotating both the valve members 42 and 82 synchronously. In FIG. 6B, the second stage impeller 17 is attached to the motor shaft 12. The second impeller 17 is driven by the pump motor 10 and rotates within the valve member 82. The second stage impeller 17 rotates at the same rotational speed as the first stage impeller 16. In the first switching position, the wall 85 of the valve member 82 between the first end 187 and the second end 188 closes the fourth fluid outlet 149 and opens the third fluid outlet 39 to the second impeller cavity 51. Fluid introduced into the mixing chamber 35 from the second fluid inlet 146 is received in the second impeller cavity 51 through the opening 57 in the thimble 56 and accelerated by the second impeller cavity 51. With the wall 45 of the first valve member 42 closing the second fluid outlet 38 from the first impeller cavity 50, no fluid is switched from the first pump stage 6 into the mixing chamber 35. Only fluid entering from the second fluid inlet 146 is output from the third fluid outlet 39. Thus, when the valve assembly 40 is in the first switching position, two fluid circuits can be connected to the pump assembly 1, each fluid circuit being driven independently from the respective first pump stage 6 and second pump stage 7.

[0037]

[0051] Rotation of the valve assembly 40 90 degrees clockwise by the actuator 100 positions the valve assembly 40 to the second switching position. As shown in FIG. 7A, rotation of the valve assembly 40 to the second switching position moves the valve member 42 90 degrees clockwise from the first switching position. However, the 90 degree rotation does not move the wall 45 sufficiently to align the opening 44 with the second fluid outlet 38, so that the second fluid outlet 34 remains closed. Fluid introduced into the first impeller cavity 50 of the first pump stage 6 from the fluid inlet 36 continues to be output from the first fluid outlet 34.

[0038]

[0052] As shown in FIG. 7B, a 90 degree clockwise rotation of the valve assembly 40 moves the second opening 184 of the valve member 82 into alignment with the fourth fluid outlet 149 and the wall 85 between the first end 187 and the second end 188, closing the third fluid outlet 39. Now, the fluid introduced into the mixing chamber 35 from the second fluid inlet 146 is switched to be output from the fourth fluid outlet 149. When the valve assembly 40 is in the second switching position, fluids in two independent fluid circuits can be connected to the pump assembly 1. Each fluid circuit is driven independently from the respective first pump stage 6 and second pump stage 7, but the second stage switches the fluid pumped by the second pump stage 7 to a different fluid circuit loop through the fourth fluid outlet 149.

[0039]

[0053] Rotation of the valve assembly 40 another 90 degrees clockwise by the actuator 100 positions the valve assembly 40 into the third switching position. As shown in FIG. 8A, rotation of the valve assembly 40 into the third switching position moves the valve member 42 wall 45 to close the fluid outlet 34 and position the opening 44 in alignment with the second fluid outlet 38. Fluid introduced into the first pump stage 6 from the fluid inlet 36 is accelerated by the first impeller cavity 50 through the second fluid outlet 38 and into the loop 37. The loop 37 delivers the fluid from the first pump stage 6 to the mixing chamber 35.

[0040]

[0054] In FIG. 8B, a 90 degree clockwise rotation of the valve assembly 40 moves the second opening 184 of the valve member 82 into alignment with the third fluid outlet 39 and the wall 85 between the first end 87 and the second end 88, closing the fourth fluid outlet 149. The fluid in the mixing chamber 35 now contains fluid from the first pump stage 6 and fluid from the second fluid inlet 146. The mixed fluid in the mixing chamber 35 flows through the opening 57 of the thimble 56 into the second impeller cavity 51, is further accelerated by the second impeller cavity 51, and is propelled to be output from the third fluid outlet 39. In the third switching position, the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit are mixed to provide a shared operating function, such as, for example, cabin cooling from a chiller system and battery cooling.

[0041]

[0055] Rotation of the valve assembly 40 another 90 degrees clockwise by the actuator 100 positions the valve assembly 40 into the fourth switch position. As shown in FIG. 9A, rotation of the valve assembly 40 into the fourth switch position moves the valve member 42 90 degrees clockwise from the third switch position. However, the 90 degree rotation does not move the wall 45 sufficiently to align the opening 44 with the first fluid outlet 34, thereby leaving the second fluid outlet 38 open. Fluid introduced into the first impeller cavity 50 of the first pump stage 6 from the fluid inlet 36 continues to be output from the second fluid outlet 38 through the loop 37 to the mixing chamber 35.

[0042]

[0056] In FIG. 9B, clockwise rotation of the valve assembly 40 90 degrees moves the first opening 84 of the valve member 82 into alignment with the fourth fluid outlet 149. The wall 85 between the first end 187 and the second end 188 closes the third fluid outlet 39. The fluid in the mixing chamber 35 is switched and further accelerated by the second impeller cavity 51 and propelled to be output from the fourth fluid outlet 149. In the fourth switched position, the first fluid circuit and the second fluid circuit are mixed to provide a shared operating function with different fluid circuit loops, such as passenger compartment heating using waste heat from the battery cooling circuit.

[0043]

[0057] The rotation of the actuator 100 to place the valve assembly 40 in the fourth switch position disclosed above does not necessarily require a clockwise direction. The illustrated clockwise direction was used to explain the operation of the valve assembly 40. The valve assembly 40 may also operate using a counterclockwise direction as well. For example, the actuator 100 may rotate the valve assembly 40 clockwise from the first switch position to the second switch position and counterclockwise back to the first switch position, or counterclockwise from the first switch position to the fourth switch position. The rotation of the actuator 100 to the various switch positions is controlled by sending signals from a controller circuit operated by a user or a vehicle computer.

[0044]

[0058] Although the present disclosure has been described with a first pump stage and a second pump stage, and a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet, those skilled in the art will appreciate that more than two pump stages may be used to perform the functions of the present disclosure. Similarly, each pump stage may have fluid inlets other than the first and second, and fluid outlets other than the first and second. Additionally, each valve member may have openings of various sizes and configurations to provide different switching results.

[0045]

[0059] It may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term "communicate," and its derivatives, encompass both direct and indirect communication. The terms "include" and "comprise," and their derivatives, mean an inclusion without limitation. The term "or" is inclusive and / or. The phrase "associated with," and its derivatives, can mean including and included in interconnected with, containing, contained in, connected to or with, coupled to or with, communicable with, cooperate with, interleaved with, juxtaposed with, adjacent to, joined to or with, having, having a characteristic of, or having a relationship to or with, and the like. The phrase "at least one of" when used in conjunction with a list of items means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, or only one item in the list may be required. For example, "at least one of: A, B, and C" includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C.

[0046]

[0060] The statements in this application should not be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential or critical element required for inclusion in the claims. The scope of patented subject matter is defined solely by the scope of the allowed claims. Moreover, no claim is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) by reference to any appended claim or claim element unless the actual words "means for" or "step for" are expressly used prior to the participial phrase identifying the function in a particular claim. The use in the claims of terms such as (without limitation) "mechanism," "module," "device," "unit," "component," "element," "member," "apparatus," "machine," "system," or "controller" is understood and intended to refer to structures known to those of ordinary skill in the art, as further modified or enhanced by the claimed features themselves, and is not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

[0047]

[0061] While this disclosure has described certain embodiments and generally related methods, modifications and variations of these embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Thus, the above description of exemplary embodiments does not define or constrain the disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A pump body; a first pump stage contained within the pump body and having a first fluid inlet and first and second fluid outlets; a second pump stage contained within the pump body and having a second fluid inlet and third and fourth fluid outlets; a mixing chamber contained within the pump body and in fluid communication with the second fluid inlet and the second fluid outlet; a valve assembly operable to a first switch position to fluidly connect the first fluid inlet to the first fluid outlet through the first pump stage and to fluidly connect the mixing chamber to the third fluid outlet through the second pump stage; and A pump assembly comprising:

2. 2. The pump assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve assembly is operable to a second switch position fluidly connecting the first fluid inlet to the first fluid outlet through the first pump stage and fluidly connecting the mixing chamber to the fourth fluid outlet through the second pump stage.

3. 2. The pump assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve assembly is operable to a third switch position fluidly connecting the first fluid inlet to the second fluid outlet and to the mixing chamber through the first pump stage, wherein the fluid from the second fluid inlet and the fluid from the second fluid outlet are mixed in the mixing chamber and the mixed fluid is fluidly connected to the third fluid outlet through the second pump stage.

4. 4. The pump assembly of claim 3, wherein the valve assembly is operable to a fourth switch position fluidly connecting the first fluid inlet through the first pump stage to the second fluid outlet and fluidly connecting the mixed fluid through the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet.

5. a motor having a motor shaft; a first impeller disposed in the first pump stage and driven by the motor shaft; a second impeller disposed in the second pump stage and driven by the motor shaft; and The pump assembly of claim 4 further comprising:

6. 6. The pump assembly of claim 5, wherein said motor drives said first impeller and said second impeller at the same rotational speed.

7. 6. The pump assembly of claim 5, wherein the first fluid inlet is connected to a first fluid source and the second fluid inlet is connected to a second fluid source, and in the first switching position, the first impeller accelerates the fluid from the first fluid source through the first pump stage to the first fluid outlet and the second impeller accelerates the fluid in the mixing chamber from the second fluid source through the second pump stage to the third fluid outlet.

8. 6. The pump assembly of claim 5, wherein the first fluid inlet is connected to a first fluid source and the second fluid inlet is connected to a second fluid source, and in the second switching position, the first impeller accelerates the fluid from the first fluid source through the first pump stage to the first fluid outlet and the second impeller accelerates the fluid in the mixing chamber from the second fluid source through the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet.

9. 6. The pump assembly of claim 5, wherein the first fluid inlet is connected to a first fluid source and the second fluid inlet is connected to a second fluid source, and in the third switching position, the first impeller accelerates the fluid from the first fluid source through the first pump stage to the second fluid outlet and into the mixing chamber, and the second impeller further accelerates the fluid in the mixing chamber from the second fluid outlet and the second fluid source through the second pump stage and propels it to the third fluid outlet.

10. 6. The pump assembly of claim 5, wherein the first fluid inlet is connected to a first fluid source and the second fluid inlet is connected to a second fluid source, and in the fourth switching position, the first impeller accelerates the fluid from the first fluid source through the first pump stage to the second fluid outlet and into the mixing chamber, and the second impeller further accelerates the fluid in the mixing chamber from the second fluid outlet and the second fluid source through the second pump stage and propels it to the fourth fluid outlet.

11. The pump assembly of claim 10 , wherein the valve assembly is moved to the first switch position, the second switch position, the third switch position, and the fourth switch position by an actuator.

12. 12. The pump assembly of claim 11, wherein the valve assembly includes a first valve member rotatably mounted between the first impeller, the first outlet and the second outlet of the first pump stage, the first valve member including a thimble attached to a bottom surface of the first valve member, the first valve member thimble including a bearing secured to the motor shaft and the first valve member thimble, and the first valve member including a peripheral wall having an opening therethrough for fluidly connecting the first fluid outlet or the second fluid outlet to the impeller.

13. 13. The pump assembly of claim 12, wherein the actuator rotates the first valve member to the first and second switch positions that align the first valve opening to fluidly connect the first impeller to the first fluid outlet and the first valve member wall and fluidly block the first impeller from the second fluid outlet.

14. 13. The pump assembly of claim 12, wherein the actuator rotates the first valve member to the third switch position and the fourth switch position that aligns the first valve opening to fluidly connect the first impeller to the second fluid outlet and the first valve member wall and fluidly block the first impeller from the first fluid outlet.

15. 12. The pump assembly of claim 11, wherein the valve assembly includes a second valve member fixed to a first valve member and rotatably mounted between the second impeller, the third fluid outlet of the second pump stage, and the fourth fluid outlet, the second valve member including an opening extending through a thimble mounted to the top surface of the second valve member, the opening fluidly connecting the second impeller to the mixing chamber, and the second valve member further including a peripheral wall having a first opening and a second opening therethrough.

16. 16. The pump assembly of claim 15, wherein when the actuator rotates the first valve member to the first switch position, the second valve member rotates to the first valve position, a first opening in the second valve member fluidly connecting the second impeller to the third fluid outlet and the second valve member wall fluidly blocking the second impeller from the fourth fluid outlet.

17. 16. The pump assembly of claim 15, wherein when the actuator rotates the first valve member to the second switch position, the second valve member rotates to the second switch position, a second opening in the second valve member fluidly connecting the second impeller to the fourth fluid outlet and the second valve member wall fluidly blocking the second impeller from the third fluid outlet.

18. 16. The pump assembly of claim 15, wherein when the actuator rotates the first valve member to the third switch position, the second valve member rotates to the third switch position, a second opening of the second valve member fluidly connecting the second impeller to the third fluid outlet and a second valve member wall fluidly blocking the second impeller from the fourth fluid outlet.

19. 16. The pump assembly of claim 15, wherein when the actuator rotates the first valve member to the fourth switch position, the second valve member rotates to the fourth switch position, a first opening in the second valve member fluidly connecting the second impeller to the fourth fluid outlet and a second valve member wall fluidly blocking the second impeller from the third fluid outlet.

20. 1. A method for switching fluid flow through a pump assembly, comprising: moving the valve assembly to a first switch position fluidly connecting a first fluid inlet and a first fluid source to a first pump stage having a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet, the first switch position fluidly connecting the first fluid outlet to the first pump stage, the first pump stage pumping fluid from the first fluid source to the first fluid outlet; fluidly connecting a mixing chamber to a second pump stage, the mixing chamber fluidly connected to a second fluid inlet and a second fluid source, the second pump stage having a third fluid outlet and a fourth fluid outlet, the first switch position fluidly connecting the third fluid outlet to the second pump stage, the second pump stage pumping fluid from the second fluid source to the third fluid outlet; moving the valve assembly to a second switch position fluidly isolating the second pump stage from the third fluid outlet and fluidly connecting the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet, wherein the fluid from the second fluid source is pumped to the fourth fluid outlet; and moving the valve assembly to a third switching position fluidly connecting the first fluid inlet and the first fluid source to the second fluid outlet and fluidly isolating the first pump stage from the first fluid outlet, the first pump stage pumping fluid from the first fluid source to the mixing chamber where it mixes with the fluid from the second fluid inlet and the second fluid source, the valve assembly in the third switching position fluidly connecting the mixing chamber to the second pump stage and the third fluid outlet and fluidly isolating the second pump stage from the fourth fluid outlet, the second pump stage accelerating and propelling the mixed fluid to the third fluid outlet; moving the valve assembly to a fourth position that disconnects the second pump stage from the third fluid outlet and fluidly connects the second pump stage to the fourth fluid outlet, the second pump stage accelerating and propelling the mixed fluid to the fourth fluid outlet; and The method includes:

Images